Controlling the arms trade

Madam, - In your edition of June 10th the Irish Government is reported to be one of seven new countries to join a "global partnership…

Madam, - In your edition of June 10th the Irish Government is reported to be one of seven new countries to join a "global partnership" on curbing the spread of weapons of mass destruction.

It is, of course, vital to prevent the proliferation of such weapons. However, half-a-million people, one every minute, are killed by conventional arms each year. Civil organisations and governments from around the world are calling for an arms trade treaty to control the sale of these weapons.

The Irish Government has yet publicly to support this initiative. It should do so now. - Yours, etc.,

COLIN ROCHE,

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Advocacy Officer,

Oxfam Ireland,

Burgh Quay,

Dublin 2.