Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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136. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding the conflict in Syria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40258/16]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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I have repeatedly made clear my concern at the failure of the UN Security Council to uphold international law in Syria. Ireland has co-sponsored a number of proposed resolutions which were all vetoed by Russia and sometimes by China. The disunity of the Council has undermined the rights of the Syrian people to the protections under international law, giving the Assad regime impunity for its atrocities. Last week, Ireland co-sponsored a resolution adopted overwhelmingly by the General Assembly, setting out a clear basis for the ending of the systematic violations of the rights of the Syrian people and for a resolution of the conflict. I believe that all member of the United Nations have an interest and a responsibility to support a peaceful resolution to the Syrian conflict.

The decision of the Joint Committee for Foreign Affairs, Trade and Defence to invite any group is solely a matter for the members of the Joint Committee. I do not propose to comment on their execution of their responsibilities. I do wish to condemn the Grand Mufti’s threat of the use of terrorism. His views are unacceptable in any democracy.

Matters on immigration are for decision by the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality.