Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy said it herself. I am not sure that all traditions would come to a citizens' assembly with this as the agenda item. Even on the shared island initiative political unionism have not engaged. To be fair, it has not put any obstacles in its way either or has not campaigned or articulated against it. Civic society in Northern Ireland from all persuasions has engaged in the dialogue, which has been very valuable. Projects are progressing. Funding is being allocated to sensible projects that can bring benefits to people North and South. There is a considerable distance to go before we are at that stage. It is not about simply convening a citizens' assembly; it is about the participation required to make it meaningful.