Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Beidh mé sciobtha gasta. I again thank the witnesses for their presentations. Evan made the point that things like empathy, understanding and dialogue are soft skills. They are really important skills, particularly on this journey and in this debate. We know that from our experience of peace-building and conflict resolution. They are key so it was good to hear Evan reference their importance.

I am interested in hearing more from Niamh about the use of digital space as a platform for peace building and reconciliation. That can reach young people in a new way. I agree with Senator Black's point that there is nothing like in-person work, particularly with youth work, but I would be keen to hear more about that.

Everybody has said what needs to be said about Ashling and Karina's contributions. They are making the argument for change for me. They are making the argument for why the systems North and South are broken. They have not worked and are failing people still. That is why we need to reimagine something new for everybody. That is true with regard to the witnesses' experience and experiences we have heard about beforehand.

Maybe the witnesses can ask Foróige and others about this on our behalf. I would love to hear from someone who has lived in and grown up in direct provision in of these sessions.

This has been really useful and important. I cannot thank the witnesses enough. This reaffirms our duty, regardless of where we fall on this particular question, and that things need to change and change for the better. The only way will do that is if we do it together.