Irish Government can lead efforts to tackle Somalian crisis– Ó Fearghaíl

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs and Trade Seán Ó Fearghaíl has called on the Government to take the lead in pushing for a strong and united approach from Europe to address the crisis in Somalia.

Speaking at the Oireachtas Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade this week, Deputy Ó Fearghaíl set out a number of measures that could be adopted immediately to help address the emergency situation in the Horn of Africa.

“The crisis in Somalia is deepening and it is up to the international community to pull together to take swift and strong action which could save lives. Ireland has a reputation as a generous country with a strong humanitarian record and we now have an opportunity to take the lead in encouraging the right response from Europe.

“I am urging the Taoiseach Enda Kenny to write to his counterparts across the EU without delay, to outline to them the importance of a coordinated approach to help the people of Somalia who are in desperate need at this time.

“I am also calling on the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to ask the European Commission to appoint a special envoy to the Horn of Africa to support and coordinate the distribution of international aid. The Irish Government has contributed €7 million to Somalia and Irish aid agencies estimate that the generosity of Irish people could provide a further €20 million to the aid effort. A special envoy can help ensure that emergency aid we contribute gets to those in the Horn of Africa who need it most.

“From our experiences on this island, we also have the opportunity to offer the political system in Somalia support in reaching a conflict resolution plan which could provide a real solution to the long-term problems facing this troubled African State. I am calling on the Tánaiste to consider this proposal so that we can help in some way to pull Somalia out of this deepening crisis.”