Michael D'Arcy (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have raised the issue of domestic violence on a number of occasions in the past and I call for a specific debate on it. I hope we can have open and clear debate to allow us to discuss the matter. I know it is a very displeasing and unpleasant topic, but that is why we are here and why we should take the opportunity to discuss this matter. A few months ago a young woman brought the topic into the public spotlight and a major light was shone on domestic violence. I am raising it because the problem is rampant, especially in the economic downturn. We have not stepped up to have a good look at this. I ask for the Minister for Justice and Equality to come to the House to discuss it and see if we can have an impact on it.

I wish to raise the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East and specifically as it affects the Yazidi people in Syria and Iraq. On BBC Radio 4 this morning, a female parliamentarian from Iraq outlined the calamity being faced by those people. Anyone who heard that woman's voice would realise that the world community is letting down a people who are being abused in an abominable way. If possible, we should focus on one specific aspect because they are a people who have been maligned in a most despicable way. I ask for that debate to be held sooner rather than later.