Tánaiste to address “Google Summit Against Extreme Violence”

The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Eamon Gilmore T.D., will address the “Google Summit Against Extreme Violence” at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham this evening. 

The Summit is an initiative of Google in association with the Council on Foreign Relations and the Tribeca Film Festival, focusing on the role that new technology can play in combating violent extremism.  Speaking ahead of the event - and noting Ireland’s unique position as a European Internet hub - the Tánaiste said:

“I warmly welcome this initiative by Google, which has brought together an impressive and diverse range of participants from all over the world to explore the role of technology in combating violent extremism.  Google is at the heart of the information and communications revolution and is a welcome addition to our economy and our society in Ireland.   

The story of our own peace process demonstrates the potential for politics and the democratically-expressed will of the people, each given their opportunity, to deliver transformational change.   

In order to ensure that ideological extremism cannot fuel ongoing conflicts, we must be responsive to the opportunities that new communication technologies offer. It is the responsibility of those of us who believe in the fundamental principles of democracy and freedom to take these arguments to the new coalface of the information age and to make our voices heard”

[Link to statement:  http://www.dfa.ie/home/index.aspx?id=86880]

Note for Editors    

The Summit Against Violent Extremism (SAVE) is an initiative of Google Ideas in association with the Council on Foreign Relations and Tribeca Film Festival. It will bring together more than fifty former violent extremists who are now dedicated to helping youth find positive alternatives.  The Summit will examine the role of technology in combating extremism and will serve as a platform for developing partnerships amongst NGOs, private and public organisations dealing with this issue.