Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I will leave plenty of time for answers. I welcome the Minister's statement that to combat racism we need to look at ourselves. I hope he will agree with me that one of the best ways we can tackle institutional racism in Ireland is to end the practice of direct provision, which is dehumanising for people.

Regarding the events in the United States, the Minister first told the House that we should not be surprised if he speaks to the US ambassador in the next week or so. He then revised that in his previous contribution to say it would be within the next few days. Given the urgency of the situation in the United States and the very forceful and shocking attacks on peaceful protests, democracy and the media, will the Minister give a commitment that he will urgently contact the US ambassador to give the view of this House and the Irish people that black lives matter?

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