Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree with a lot that has been said on two issues. The first is the incoherence of certain members of the Opposition in respect of the special links between Ireland and the United States, which we all accept. The second is the statements by some members of the Opposition to the effect that the Taoiseach should not go to the US. In other words, they are suggesting that we sever the important links between Ireland and the United States.

Another worrying element is the suggestion by some members of the Opposition that pre-clearance facilities and Shannon and Dublin be discontinued. Pre-clearance at Shannon and Dublin is of massive importance, not only to the development of the Irish economy but in the fostering of relations between Ireland and the United States of America. We are the only country in the European Union and the only country outside the Americas with access to pre-clearance, with the exception of one country in the Middle East. To suggest that we relent in this would be detrimental to the relationship between Ireland and the United States and hugely detrimental to the development of the economy. In my own area over 200,000 people come through Shannon's pre-clearance annually and it is of critical importance. We should send a very clear statement of commitment to Ireland's relationship with the United States of the America. The Taoiseach has said he will enunciate the Government's position on President Trump's announcement on immigration policy but it is of critical national importance that this House gives a clear statement on our ongoing commitment to pre-clearance for Shannon and Dublin.

I support the statements of my Government colleagues and wish the Taoiseach well in his forthcoming visit to the White House. I also echo calls of colleagues for the undocumented to be raised at the highest level.

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