Niall Blaney (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome Dr. Soares, Mr. Quinn, Ms Farrell and Dr. Ní Lochlainn here this morning to what is turning out to be an interesting debate, and which becomes more interesting the further we delve into these issues. I would first like to establish what the impact of the protocol has been on the business interests with which the ad hocgroup engages? Does the group see itself as an information gathering organisation and if so, what is the feedback at present in regard to it? Given some of the comments today, has the group's level of engagement diminished in any way since the introduction of the protocol? What is the current status in that regard? What is the feedback from counterparts in Northern Ireland on the protocol? What are the issues involved or do they see it as a positive? What feedback is being received?

I was interested in what Mr. Quinn said about the North-South youth forum that recently received funding from the Department of Foreign Affairs. Mr. Quinn's organisation could have a good standing in regard to that sort of work, provided it is representative of all sectors of society. As he rightly pointed out, our youth do not provide us, as policymakers, with enough input. Any avenues that enhance opportunities to meet policymakers would welcome. I would like to see the group linked more with the workings of the shared island unit.

They could play a very important role in that regard. The working going on in unit is critical to the young people of this world and the generations to come. They need to have their say.

I was also delighted to hear about the work that Ms Farrell is involved in. My colleague, Deputy Joe Flaherty, from Longford is very supportive of the work that she does and has a lot of praise for it. I am delighted that she is working with the shared island unit. If we are going to get along on this island, organisations such as hers will be fundamental to that . Co-operation needs to continue at all levels, and from the bottom up in particular. If engagement does not take place at the lower echelons of organisations, our future will not be great. It has to take place across society as well. I look forward to the feedback.