Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Taoiseach for his very positive response. It is important we enhance our reputation as peacekeepers and use this opportunity in the 30 separate locations across the world mentioned by the Taoiseach. Having been at St. Patrick's Day celebrations in China and in eastern Europe, I fully understand the value of making sure we promote Ireland. However, on this particular occasion it is important we use it to support the Ukrainians in their hour of need and to ensure they are not forgotten in any part of the world.

I also suggest that the Taoiseach invite the President of Ukraine to address both Houses of the Oireachtas through Zoom at some stage. He is due to that this evening in London. It would be a way to show we are with him and his people in this hour of need. When we had our hour of need, we had allies. We must ensure we continue to make the Ukrainian people aware we are with them in whatever way we can, humanitarian or whatever else, to ensure we get them over their hour of need.

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