Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I am delighted at what has happened in the relationship been the United States and Cuba. The boycott of Cuba had been in place for more than 50 years and I am delighted to see it lifted. I wish prosperity and positive developments from this for the people of Cuba. I understand this is covered by the mediation Bill. The Deputy will know that last weekend we marked the successful conclusion of the meditation I initiated for Waterford Glass workers and their outstanding pension issues. There is a strong role for mediation in disputes, both large and small.

I wish Sinn Féin and the other parties good luck in the North in their budgetary talks which are critical for the overall discussions in the North.

I am so delighted that Deputy Finian McGrath and I are in a truce. I wish him, and most importantly all his constituents, a happy Christmas.

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