Ivan Yates
Ceist:21 Mr. Yates asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the assistance, if any, he proposes to give to Sierra Leone following the recent murder of an Irish person there (details supplied).
Written Answers. - Aid to Sierra Leone.
Nora Owen
Ceist:79 Mrs. Owen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the assistance, if any, he proposes to give to Sierra Leone following the recent murder of an Irish person there (details supplied).
The Government is deeply concerned at the continuing conflict in Sierra Leone which has been the scene of many deaths and has given rise to a serious humanitarian crisis. I was particularly saddened by the brutal murder of Fr. Felim McAllister along with a Dutch doctor and his family last week.
Ireland has strong links with Sierra Leone as a result of the work there of Irish missionaries over the years. I wish to take this opportunity to salute the Irish nuns for their unwavering commitment to their mission.
I recently met with Fr. McAllister's brothers, the Provincial of the Holy Ghost Order, Fr. Brian McLaughlin and representatives of the Sisters of the Daughters of Charity, to express the Government's condolences to them on the death of Fr. McAllister. I discussed with them ways in which assistance could be given to Sierra Leone and how we could mark Fr. McAllister's contribution to the people of that country.
In addition, my colleague the Minister of State, Deputy Tom Kitt, has met with representatives of some Irish NGOs to discuss the humanitarian situation in Sierra Leone. I understand that a number of detailed proposals will be made shortly to my Department requesting further assistance for Sierra Leone. Upon receipt these proposals will be considered sympathetically.