Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Lithuania is not the only country; Poland is now considering leaving the convention as well.Frankly, the response is highly inadequate and is effectively a set of excuses. We are meant to be applauding Lithuania because rather than breaching international rules based on the rule of order, it is leaving the convention. It is like we should be saying "Well done, what a tough decision for you" but it is not a tough decision. It is a decision that has consequences in terms of human life, loss of limb and impact on civilians. Frankly, it is not enough to convey that we will agree to disagree in some private meetings. We need to see what I call for in this Commencement matter, which is action. The kind of vocal support that is needed is not a quiet word in the ear, but vocal and visible statements from the Irish Government condemning an absolutely landmark decision to leave a convention against an unacceptable and brutal weapon. The Government must condemn it publicly and not just say "what a pity". That is what Ireland needs to do if we are to be meaningful in being vocal and taking action regarding the cluster munitions treaty. This is what the Government needs to do if it wants to dissuade other countries. It cannot simply be a case of "well you are a little nervous so you will use it; we were not planning on banning cluster munitions if you use them in wars." Of course they were designed for use in wars because they are one of the most brutal and effective weapons for mass killing. It is important for Ireland to take a stand now. What action will Ireland take? Can the Minister of State guarantee that we will not be engaging in any military co-operation with countries that have left the cluster munition treaty?