Imelda Munster (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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I thank the Chairman for his statement. There is not a shred of doubt in my mind that every word spoken was genuine and sincere. That reflects the type of person the Chairman is. The Chairman, like me, is a lifelong and proud Republican. He is a person who walks the walk. People talk about bringing peace to the island and the Good Friday Agreement. The Chairman was actively involved in promoting and working for that peace and seeing it come to fruition. We have had a permanent peace now for more than two decades. I know the Chairman's words are genuine because he has walked the walk.

Regarding the chairmanship of this committee, I think the two matters are totally separate. In the short time he has been in this role, the Chairman has been exemplary. He has been impartial and fair on all occasions. Again, that reflects the type of individual he is. That is the end of the matter for me. The Chairman has genuinely apologised and, as others have said, this committee has much work to do and we need to get on with that.