Like Senator Trevor Ó Clochartaigh, I would like Margaretta D'Arcy to be released. Ms D'Arcy is a peace activist and woman of principle whom I admire. I remind Senators, however, that we must also consider the law of the land. As everyone knows, encroaching on the runway of an airport has consequences.

What about the consequences of rendition flights?

That is a separate issue which needs to be debated.

It is related.

Through the Chair, please.

I am told that Ms D'Arcy will be released if she gives an undertaking not to encroach onto the runway at Shannon Airport in the future.

She was told not to protest.

No crossfire.

I ask those who support Ms D'Arcy's cause to encourage her to enable her release as soon as possible. She is undergoing treatment for cancer and it is not appropriate that she be in prison. I encourage her early release, but she must come part of the way and meet the requirements of the prison authorities.

I join in welcoming today's announcement by the Tánaiste of an expansion in our embassy network. It is particularly welcome that, for the first time, we will have embassies in the fast-growing economies of Thailand and Indonesia and the business hubs of Hong Kong and Sao Paulo. For the first time, an embassy will support the Irish Aid programme in Nairobi. Like others, I am pleased that the Tánaiste has decided to reopen the embassy to the Vatican. As a member of the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs, I am pleased that the Tánaiste listened to all of the measured contributions made during the past year. I have no doubt that, under the leadership of Pope Francis, the issues of poverty, hunger and human rights will be addressed by the Government in conjunction with the Vatican.

I strongly support Senator Ivana Bacik's call for an urgent debate on the worsening situation in Syria, the appalling loss of life there and the growing number of refugees filtering into neighbouring countries. If possible, will the Leader arrange the debate for next week?