Barry Heneghan (Dublin Bay North, Independent)

I have had engagement on this matter with the Minister previously. When I stood for election as an Independent in Dublin Bay North, the constituency where the former Crown Paints site is located, this issue came up on the doorsteps. The public want to know. I was one of the only candidates who had immigration on my election literature. The platform I was elected on was based on a more dignified, proactive approach to immigration focusing on dialogue between communities and the Government. We know this was not the case with the Crown Paints site. That is why what happened at the site was so disappointing. I know this did not happen during the Minister's term in office but during the term of his predecessor. I call for a full inquiry to understand how the situation was so grossly mishandled so that the mistakes that occurred are never repeated.

Previous speakers talked about solidarity with the Indian community. When I was in Beaumont Hospital recently, I heard of the exact same experience with nurses and doctors being attacked leaving the hospital. Another Deputy mentioned it too. I stand with that community and show solidarity with them. I believe in a country where immigration in Dublin and elsewhere is managed with respect and where communities are included.

See this speech in context