Johnny Mythen (Wexford, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

As this is my maiden speech, I hope the Acting Chairman can indulge me for a few minutes. I would like to begin by offering my sincere condolences to all the families who have lost loved ones through the coronavirus disease. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

I would like to give thanks to the people of Wexford for voting for me and to all those who came out and exercised their democratic franchise. I am humbled and grateful to them for placing their trust in me. I hope I will serve them with honour, dignity and humility. In my gratitude, I thank my faithful and hard-working campaign team and, lastly, my family and wife who I am completely indebted to as I would not be here without their unconditional love and support.

I want to place on record the many thousands of voices from my model county who voted for change and yet have witnessed their democratic rights suffocated under a veil of self-interest and an insatiable desire for power. A servant to power is not a servant of the people.

Covid-19 has caused a traumatic shock to normality. We cannot let it lead to the bleak austerity we have faced since 2009. It is now time for the Central Bank and the banking sector to play a far more active role in rescuing the people who rescued them.

Brexit also poses its own set of economic challenges. This week, the British Government has begun trade talks with the USA. Down the line, that will have many implications for the Irish markets, food and hygiene standards to name but one. I ask the Minister to undertake the protection of our agrifood industry, fishing industry and tourism sector across the entire island of Ireland, and particularly in Wexford, and ensure they are buffeted against any Brexit tariffs, including the possible huge increases in the ad valoremtariffs. Rosslare Europort is a linchpin between commerce and trade and is the closest link to Britain and Europe. Increased upgrading and investing in this strategic port will bring benefits, value and dividends to all our citizens for decades to come. I plead with the Minister to, please, act on that.

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