Aubrey McCarthy (Independent)

I thank the Minister of State, Deputy Smyth, for being in the House this morning. I want to highlight the disturbing kidnapping of 315 children from St. Mary's primary and secondary schools in Papiri in Nigeria. It is a school run by a religious order. The superior in the school is a lady called Sr. Mary Barron. She has been seen speaking on the news in recent days. It is horrendous. It is what every parent fears: children taken from their dormitories at night and families left helpless. We know in Ireland that schools have to be a safe place. What happened in Nigeria this week is an attack not only on the community but on the basic right of children to learn, grow and be safe. I want to express my personal support for Sr. Mary, the Irish missionary community overseas and the families who are worried about their children and are living through this nightmare.

I ask the Minister of State to ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to outline the steps Ireland can take directly or through the EU or UN to support efforts to secure their safe return. I know 50 children have escaped but if there is any additional diplomatic or humanitarian support needed, Ireland should be ready.

I also want to acknowledge the work of such volunteers as Mary from Donegal, who have devoted their lives to protecting vulnerable children. They should know we in this House stand with them today.