Fine Gael Call on Goverment to discuss Iraq

Thursday January 09, 2003 20:56

by In support of Alex

The Dáil should be reconvened to discuss the country's position on Iraq, the Government was told tonight. The situation was too important to be decided by long distance phone conversations between leaders, said Fine Gael foreign affairs spokesman Gay Mitchell. His call came as campaigners intensified their demands for the Government to clarify its position on the use of Shannon airport for refuelling by United States forces. At a time of potential war and as US troops pass through Shannon, the Taoiseach, Tanaiste, and Minister for Foreign Affairs are all out of the country, Mr Mitchell said.

The Dáil should be reconvened to discuss the country's position on Iraq, the Government was told tonight.

The situation was too important to be decided by long distance phone conversations between leaders, said Fine Gael foreign affairs spokesman Gay Mitchell.

His call came as campaigners intensified their demands for the Government to clarify its position on the use of Shannon airport for refuelling by United States forces.

At a time of potential war and as US troops pass through Shannon, the Taoiseach, Tanaiste, and Minister for Foreign Affairs are all out of the country, Mr Mitchell said.

He said the Dáil, which is not due to return until the end of the month, should be given the chance to debate and vote on issues including the inspection of Iraqi weaponry and the threat of terrorism.

Meanwhile an Irish Green Party delegation was visiting campaigners at Shannon airport, pledging its support for their protest.

Campaigners claim the use of Shannon airport by US military goes against Ireland's military neutrality.

Green Party chief whip Dan Boyle said Foreign Affairs minister Brian Cowen
should clarify his position on the use of the airport.

His party believed an open debate on Iraq in the Dail was essential, and that
Mr Cowen should state what he was intending to say and pledge on behalf of the Irish people.