Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The initial contribution of the Deputy was not directed at the Government, as I heard it.

They were directed at others in this House and perhaps people outside it. I was entitled to set out from the Government's perspective what we are doing to deal with what is a very challenging situation. We must be fair, open and honest about that. I will always vindicate and stand behind the rights of others to raise questions and to have legitimate debate but it was important to put that in context and in the context of what the Government is doing. It certainly was not self-praise in any way.

However, Ireland is a good country. It is a place people want to come and live and work in and rear a family. That is borne out by all the evidence. Apart from the flow of Ukrainian refugees and people seeking international protection, all the evidence points to Ireland being regarded as an attractive country where people see a bright future and opportunity. Of course, that places more pressure on our health system, the housing crisis we face and the delivery of public services but this Government will continue to do its best to meet those obligations. I pay tribute to the 4,500 people who are now in receipt of the accommodation recognition payment in respect of almost 10,000 Ukrainians who have come here seeking refuge and support. I pay tribute to them and the Irish people.

See this speech in context