Bríd Smith (Dublin South Central, People Before Profit Alliance) | Oireachtas source

I have spent the past half hour out at the gates, where there are approximately 150 to 200 Travellers who have come from all over Ireland to witness this historic occasion. It is unusual. The AV room and Gallery are full. They have been patient, having been outside for hours, and they are excited about this most historic occasion in the life of their community. Would anyone blame them?

I have asked the Ceann Comhairle and the ushers whether it is possible to open up the coffee dock or some of the party rooms to allow the Travellers inside to hear these proceedings. They are emotional and many of us will discuss why we believe that is,. However, the least that we can do is make a plea to any settled people in the Gallery to give up their seats for the Travellers who have come all this way.

Could we postpone proceedings and ask the staff, not lean on them, whether there is any way to find more space to allow Travellers inside to witness this on CCTV? Some of us could supply our services to help patrol and provide security. I am willing to forgo my opportunity to speak so as to help with ushering people in and out and ensuring there is no hassle. If there are not enough staff, Deputies would be more than willing to do that.

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