Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

-----that there is a commitment and history. I support the motion. The Antarctic is unique. It is an isolated land mass with no permanent human settlements, surrounded by a wild, cold and stormy ocean. Few can perceive the benefits of the Antarctic. Few of us have clear opinions based on personal experience, for many of us will never visit or have the opportunity to visit that continent. The whole of mankind benefits from its isolation, which is part of its uniqueness. Few will ever have an opportunity to visit its unique ecosystems. The treaty is about the ecosystems that are there. It is a global resource, both practically and spiritually and it must be managed, conserved and supported for the benefit of all.

I acknowledge the enormous work done by a former Senator, now MEP, Grace O'Sullivan. She is the Green Party marine spokesperson. She has been so much involved in the sea and ahead of the ball regarding the Antarctic. She is an environmentalist and was personally involved in Greenpeace out on the high seas.She brought all of that skill, passion and love for the environment here. When she left, she went to the European Parliament, where she continues to be a wonderful advocate for this area. It would be right and proper that we acknowledge her work.

I thank the Minister and I thank the Green Party. I will be supporting this motion.