Martin Ferris (Kerry, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The general public is not aware of the huge decline of the population on our islands, the hardships associated with trying to scrape out a living there and the very fact that they are probably the most discriminated against sector in our society.

That will go some way to focusing attention on the future of our islands. It is not going to turn things back to how they were but it will certainly focus attention on it. It will also give a sense of confidence to those who reside on the islands that at least they are being heard and they are no longer alone. I cannot understand it when I hear other organisations going on about problems with distributors and all these obstacles that are being put up. Some of them probably lived on the islands themselves. I cannot understand how they could have any objection to doing something right for our island communities. I was slightly encouraged at the end of the meeting when many of them said they agreed in principle. They need to give us the amendments to deal with the problems they have. Then we can debate the amendments and if there is merit to them they should be included.

It is good to be here listening to the witnesses. It is a pity the rest of our nation is not listening to them because they have been done a terrible wrong. They have been neglected, abandoned and forgotten. Maybe today and as we progress this further, there will be some awakening for the great culture, heritage and people that come from our islands.