Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I commend Senator McGreehan on her initiative. I am happy to change my tie to pink. I missed the memo.I ask the Cathaoirleach and Leader for a debate on foreign affairs in the coming weeks, in particular in light of our membership of the United Nations Security Council and given that we, as an island nation, share the values of peace and of upholding human rights and international law. It is important that we have a debate on our One-China policy in light of the record number of incursions into Taiwanese airspace by the Chinese in the past five days, which amounted, I believe, to 51 or 52 such incursions. I say that recognising that we have a One-China policy and the importance of China. If we are to value human rights, international law and the economy, as former the Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, would say, to make Ireland the best small country in the world in which to do business, then we should be developing relationships and links with Taiwan in both economic and cultural terms.

I am seeking a debate on foreign affairs specifically on the One-China policy. I am not at all anti-China but if we all want to have a free world where free trade and democracy are upheld, then we need to review our One-China policy in the context of Taiwan. I am in favour of having closer ties with Taiwan and I know that this House of the Oireachtas has such a positive relationship with it through the Taipei Representative Office in Ireland. We are a member of the United Nations Security Council and must stand up for small island nations. The incursions by China into Taiwanese airspace is unacceptable and wrong and we should call it out and stand with Australia and the United States of America.

I hope that the Cathaoirleach on Taiwanese Day will send best wishes to the Taiwanese people, as he has done in respect of other countries. It is important that we, as a House, take a stand in respect of Taiwan and its relations with the world. We have also seen with Taiwan’s Covid-19 strategy and its cutting-edge business technology how it can change the world. Gabhaim buíochas.