Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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May I say how much we respect Lord Empey's contribution and that of his party's former leader, David Trimble, in signing the agreement. At the core of that, is a recognition of one's right to be British is recognised in the future, no matter what the situation becomes with regard to whatever new proposal or votes might happen. It is important to have Lord Empey here, as a member of the unionist community. We respect that community's history and traditions and we in the South have to work together with Lord Emery and other people of the unionist persuasion, to find and continue the peaceful process which has been so successful.

Senator Blaney is the first speaker for Fianna Fáil.