Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)

We will support the motion. Our participation in the visa waiver programme is another testament to the strong links between Ireland the US. These links are economic, cultural and social and extend to every aspect of life in and part of our country. The experience of travelling to the US now is much enhanced over the experience that obtained prior to our participation in the programme. However, it comes with responsibilities which the Minister has outlined. During Question Time, we discussed the complexities involved in dealing with international crime, including terrorism. The agreement forms part of that approach.

I do not doubt that our citizens have nothing to fear from our participation in this programme. On Committee Stage, we raised issues with the Minister in respect of spent convictions and so on. He intends to deal with them in new legislation later this year. We support the agreement and the continuing strength of the relationship between Ireland and the US.

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