Jerry Cowley (Mayo, Independent)

I thank the Minister for his reply. I challenge him to try harder to ensure free travel for our emigrants when they come home to Ireland, particularly on holidays. I am disappointed it has not happened to date though I do not doubt the sincerity of the Minister's belief that this should happen. The Minister cannot use economic arguments as these people are economic migrants who gave €3.5 billion to Ireland when we had nothing, helping us in our darkest hour.

This issue is of fundamental importance to our emigrants as it is symbolic. The task force on emigrants highlighted this issue as something near and dear to their hearts. Emigrants returning to Ireland on holidays feel they are lesser citizens because they do not have free travel. The Minister's reply in December 2005 stated that free schemes had been extended but emigrants on holidays were precluded on the grounds that it would be discriminatory to other EU citizens. I told the Minister he should examine this again as there is a common area of travel between Ireland and the United Kingdom that has existed and been recognised since before we were members of the EU.

The Minister stated he would take my advice on board and would continue to examine any available options. Has the Minister any news? There is a limited timespan as these people will not live forever. They have done much for us but we have forgotten them and we now have an opportunity to do something for them. Will the Minister use the window of opportunity?

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