Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Well, the Minister did not come to that Topical Issue debate. It was submitted in the morning, the Minister's Department agreed to take it and then nobody turned up to take it. That is a sign that the Minister did not come, as far as I can make out. That is a problem in the context of the Dáil's procedures and how Topical Issue debates are treated. Overall, that is probably an issue for another day.

I am glad this Topical Issue matter is finally being taken today. It arises from legislation that went through the House of Commons last week and which introduces an electronic travel authorisation, ETA, system for non-Irish or non-UK citizens who wish to travel into the North at any time. This has serious implications for Ireland and the Minister recognised that when he talked to the newspapers about the legislation. He said the British Government had failed to recognise the "very unusual construct and series of relationships and treaties and agreements" that relate to Ireland, the Border and how it works with the UK. In reality, while the UK has said there will not be any checks, if there is a system at the Border where it is necessary for people to register, then there must be some provision or allowance for checks on that system at some stage in the future as well. Will I wrap up?

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