Frank Feighan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. Culbert and Mr. Mulgrew. It is great to see them here again. They were here four years ago I think. I remember as part of the Good Friday committee we went up and saw the valuable work being done. I know the witnesses' organisation has been working extremely hard across the communities with EPIC and similar organisations in loyalist west Belfast. I congratulate and thank them for the work that they have done.

There is an issue in regard to funding. There is a reconciliation fund from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. There are issues because of the impasse in Stormont. Is it possible that this committee could recommend to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade that perhaps a budget could be secured or more of a budget? I saw first-hand the work that the witnesses' organisation has done.

Last time, the issue was car and home insurance. That was resolved to an extent but is still an issue. I am concerned at the barriers to international travel. The Australian Embassy must be congratulated. Today, I am going to the United States. I have to apply for my Electronic System for Travel Authorization, ESTA. It is only then that one witnesses the various things that one has to connect with. I can see where that problem is if there are any issues. It has certainly escalated in the last few years. The witnesses need dedicated funding for their organisation. It is hit and miss a lot of the time. I have seen first-hand the work they are doing and I am very impressed with what they have done over the years. Perhaps this committee could seek extra funding from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, especially if the impasse in Stormont is affecting funding. Maybe it is or maybe it is not. I think the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade should consider supporting this worthwhile project.