Jen Cummins (Dublin South Central, Social Democrats)

I will use my time to show appreciation and give thanks to two groups in my constituency in Dublin South-Central, Inchicore For All and Dublin 8 for All. These two groups have been working to ensure that people coming to this country seeking protection are welcomed, supported and feel part of the community.

Inchicore For All was set up to support several people and families who arrived in Ireland and are temporarily housed in the area. Since its establishment, there have been picnics, summer trips, international food events, parties, training and a freecycle so that things can be donated and shared. Young people and children have made friends and have all become involved in sporting groups and other activities. Dublin 8 for All has held parties, events and gatherings since it was founded. However, it had a very tough number of months, with the erection of an encampment in Dublin 8 beside several schools to protest against an IPAS centre. Dublin 8 for All worked with people from the encampment, councillors, TDs, gardaí and Dublin City Council to try to create calm and ease tensions.

Both these groups are run by volunteers. They are people with big hearts and kindness. They have so many ideas and such a great amount of energy. They provide safety, support, laughter and fun in our community. Friendships have been formed and strength has been built. I thank them and say "Well done" to them for that work. They have made Dublin South-Central very proud. These groups exist out of kindness, but on the other side of that they are there to create protection from a small but loud group of people who are hell-bent on creating hate and division in our community. Let us not forget how many Irish people are currently living, to provide themselves with a better lifestyle, in Dubai, Australia and lots of places. We have to remember that.

Climate change will challenge us with migration in a way we have not seen. We must plan for that.

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