Kenny calls for Ireland to help in Iraqi crisis

FINE GAEL will today seek the support of all political parties in the Dáil over a motion calling for the Government to take a lead role in helping to avoid a humanitarian catastrophe in Iraq.

Party leader Enda Kenny has written to the party leaders seeking their backing for a motion which, he said, reflected the widely held concerns of the Irish people about the crisis facing Iraq. While Mr Kenny is almost certain to attract the support of Opposition parties, Governments have traditionally sought to avoid supporting motions put forward by other parties where possible.

Government officials say a decision will not be made until today on what way it will vote when the private member’s motion comes before the Dáil, which is due to be debated this evening.