Barry Heneghan (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I wish the Minister the best of luck in his new role. I am very happy to see this motion, which holds substantial implications for our nation's youth and the broader European community. I will focus on the benefits, such as cultural enrichment. By embracing this scheme, the Irish youth will have unparalleled opportunities to experience life. They have always been in the UK and fostering a mutual understanding will strengthen the historical bonds we share. The educational opportunities are also significant for the young people I know. Equalised tuition fees will make UK institutions more accessible to Irish students, broadening their academic horizons. Another significant aspect relates to the economic advantages, facilitating the movement of young professionals. Many of my friends are living in London, and I believe this will address the labour market needs in sectors experiencing shortages.

Opting in to these negotiations is not merely about facilitating movement. It is about reaffirming our commitment to the youth of Ireland and providing them with avenues to grow, learn and contribute positively to our society. I am glad we are seizing this opportunity to invest in the future of our nation.

Before Brexit, 12,000 Irish students enrolled in UK universities annually, with more than 30,000 Irish moving to the UK. The barriers that arose after Brexit need to be removed. Many young people still find it hard to access opportunities, leading them, as I mentioned, to go to London, Manchester or Liverpool. We have cultural and educational ties with the UK and I support the positives of this scheme. The exchange of language, culture and shared history means the Irish community has always played a key role in the UK, and this scheme will ensure that continues. The Irish community is the UK's largest diaspora population and this scheme will ensure young Irish citizens can still freely strengthen that link. The safeguards that are in place will ensure balance and fairness. I reiterate that this is not an open door policy. There will be clear eligibility criteria to ensure a balanced approach to youth mobility. The UK has similar agreements, which I have recently seen, with countries such as Australia, Canada and New Zealand. These have proven a success, and I hope the Minister will look at these successful cases and implement the key steps they have taken. I hope the scheme will ensure equal access to education for Irish citizens, which we are going to need.

The scheme is not just about facilitating movement; it is about investing in the future. We have always been outward looking, and this is about embracing opportunity and ensuring our young people can contribute to the global stage. I am fully in support of the motion. Ireland needs to remain connected, competitive and committed to empowering the next generation.

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