Cathal Berry (Kildare South, Independent)
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That is good to hear. Ireland is in financial surplus at the moment but we might not always be in surplus. That dovetails nicely to my next point on purchasing residential embassies and ambassadors’ residences abroad. I think that is a good practice. Rent is great for a couple of years because you get to sound out the neighbourhood. However, when the country is as financially rich as it is now, we should bite the bullet and buy these properties. It makes perfect sense over the long term and it is something we could pass on to the future generations that may not be able to afford rent in ten or 15 years’ time the way things are going.

On the Washington property, that is completely appropriate. I agree with the Minister of State that there is a unique relationship between Ireland and the United States. I think the Americans have a special relationship with the UK but they have a unique relationship with Ireland. As they say themselves, they have friends in the UK but they have family in Ireland. Blood is thicker than water. I think that is a good investment. There is an American intern in the Public Gallery, namely, Jack Matthews. He is over here and that underscores the unique relationship we have. I am actually in Washington next week so I will have a look at the residence to make sure it is appropriate, which I presume it is. I look forward to that.

Finally, my last point is on the €7 million profit, if you want to describe it as such, from the Passport Office. I was not aware of that. I think it is a good thing. It shows how in-demand an Irish passport is. I am happy to see that €7 million surplus is being ploughed back into the system and used appropriately.

In summary, I am happy with the additional Estimate and I am happy to support it. I look forward to the cheques being in the post first thing in morning.