Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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I am pleased to have the opportunity to open this debate on the 44th plenary meeting of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly, BIPA, which was held in the Seanad Chamber earlier this week. I understand this is the first occasion on which Dáil time has been specifically set aside to discuss the outcome of a plenary meeting of the assembly. It is only right that this should be so.

The assembly has a long and distinguished history since its establishment in 1990 as the British-Irish Inter-Parliamentary Body. It has brought together parliamentarians from the Oireachtas and Westminster and, since its expansion in 2001, the Northern Ireland, Welsh and Scottish Assemblies and the Parliaments of the Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey. It provides a forum for representatives of the people of these islands to discuss matters of mutual concern and work together in finding imaginative and co-operative solutions to the challenges we all face. It has also been a significant tool in deepening mutual understanding and building friendships between parliamentarians from the various jurisdictions. These relationships, built on foundations of trust, respect and admiration which are established in the shared experience of participation at assembly meetings, have proved invaluable in fostering reconciliation and the resolution of conflict on this island. In that respect, I note the important contribution made by the BIPA to the successes of the peace process in recent decades.

Perhaps the most important role played by the assembly has been to allow members the opportunity to consider the dynamics of the British-Irish relationship and examine ways of deepening that relationship. As such, this last meeting could not have come at a more opportune time. It was exactly one year ago today that Queen Elizabeth arrived at Casement Aerodrome at the start of her historic state visit to Ireland. I recall greeting her as she stepped onto Irish soil and the sense of historic occasion that accompanied the various elements of her visit with which we are so familiar. In recent months the British and Irish Governments have worked hard to build on the success of that visit. The relationship between our islands has reached a new maturity and an unprecedented level of respect and co-operation. The joint communiqué on the future of British-Irish relations issued by the Taoiseach and Prime Minister Cameron following their summit meeting in March was ground-breaking. It was a forward-looking statement identifying key areas for co-operation between our countries in the decade ahead. It was, notably, the first such statement that was not in large part concerned with the situation in Northern Ireland.

That is not to say Northern Ireland has diminished in importance. On the contrary, the joint statement reiterates the commitment of the two Governments to the full implementation of the agreements and supporting the Executive in the ongoing process of reconciliation, with the goal of creating a cohesive, shared and integrated society in Northern Ireland. However, it is because such startling successes have been achieved in the peace process so far that our relationship with Britain no longer needs to be defined primarily with Northern Ireland. The visit of Queen Elizabeth last year symbolised the normalisation of relations between these islands. The challenge before us is to identify new bases on which to develop the British-Irish partnership and the joint statement sets out the way forward in that regard.

Next year Britain and Ireland will celebrate 40 years of working together as partners in Europe. Last week marked the 40th anniversary of the referendum on Irish accession to the then EEC. The opportunity to work together as equals in such a key multilateral organisation played a large part in our ability to come together as equals bilaterally. The joint statement prioritises the need for us to work together to support the development of an outward facing European Union which promotes job creation and growth.

More often than not in international fora, we find ourselves on the same side of the argument as the British Government when addressing global challenges. I was personally struck by the importance of such a close working relationship when I attended the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels on Monday, which prevented my joining the meeting in Leinster House. It was through co-operation with Britain, and other partners, in that forum that we were able to reach agreement on what I consider was an important statement on the Middle East peace process, as well as other issues. The joint statement identifies the need for continued close co-operation between Britain and Ireland within the European Union and other multilateral organisations.

The most pressing task facing all of us, east and west, in addition to North and South, is dealing with the economic crisis. As legislators during these difficult times, our primary focus must be on the creation of jobs and the promotion of economic growth to secure the prosperity and well-being of the citizens of these islands. It is inconceivable that we would even begin to address this challenge without looking, in the first instance, to our economic relationship with Britain, our largest and most significant trading partner. The mutual dependence of our economies is widely recognised on both sides of the Irish Sea. Prime Minister Cameron has noted that British exports to Ireland outstrip those to the emerging economies of Brazil, Russia, India and China, BRIC, combined. By the same token, Irish exports to the United Kingdom in 2011 increased by €600 million, far greater than the rate of export growth to the BRIC countries in the same period. Irish goods and services are well established on the British market, but significant potential for future growth remains.

It is unsurprising, therefore, that in identifying areas for co-operation the joint statement devotes a substantial section to the economic relationship. It commits the two Governments to intensifying co-operation on research and development in order to support innovation. It identifies, in particular, the energy sector as a key area of economic potential, given the imminent commissioning of the east-west interconnector. We will seek to promote further investment in the area of renewable energy. The statement also highlights the potential for greater co-operation and collaboration in the lucrative agrifood sector and in other areas such as professional and financial services, ICT and the creative industries.

To better guide our approach to strengthened economic co-operation, the two Governments have agreed to prepare a joint evaluation of the economic relationship between the islands. I am very heartened to see that the areas the Government identifies as priorities for British-Irish co-operation are very much mirrored in the agenda for the plenary meeting. We are at one in recognising the central importance of further developing economic co-operation between Britain and Ireland for our mutual benefit.

I recognise that members discussed a variety of important issues in the course of the meeting, including the role of transport in supporting business and tourism, opportunities for the food sector in Britain and Ireland and the potential for shared services in the health sector. I also note that leading figures of the business community were invited to address the plenary meeting. This a very welcome initiative, allowing parliamentarians to hear directly from business their views on what the Governments should be doing to make business easier. It also allows members to raise issues of concern to themselves or their constituents directly with business leaders.

I commend, in particular, Deputy Joe McHugh and his co-chairman, Mr. Laurence Robertson, MP, for their tremendous achievement in delivering such a substantial programme of work and ably managing the meeting over the course of the two days. As an indication of the priority attached by the Government to the work of the assembly, the Taoiseach and the Minister of State at the Department of Finance, Deputy Brian Hayes, both former members of the assembly, in addition to the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Leo Varadkar, and the Minister for Health, Deputy James Reilly, took the time to address the meeting and engage in productive discussions with members. The members were also received at Áras an Uachtaráin by President Higgins, a very active former member of the assembly. I am pleased to note the British Government was represented by the Secretary of State, Mr. Owen Paterson. This level of participation and engagement gave a particular focus and substance to the discussions over the course of the two days and contributed to what was one of the most productive assembly meetings of recent years.

I thank all Members who participated, from the Oireachtas, Westminster and other Assemblies, for their efforts. Discussion at the BIPA of issues of mutual concern to all of us across these islands is vital, but it is only the start of the work. It is up to all members to build on the success of this meeting, bring the work of the assembly to the wider Oireachtas membership and allow the ideas and suggestions raised at the meeting to feed into consideration of policy at all levels. As the Taoiseach said in his address on Monday, Britain remains our nearest neighbour and closest friend. As the Government considers how best to deepen the relationship with Britain in the coming months, the outcome of the BIPA debates will continue to play a central role.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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I welcome the debate on this issue. I congratulate the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Deputy Gilmore, and indeed, Deputy McHugh, who I am sure was instrumental in us having the debate on the plenary session. It is, I understand, the first time that such a debate has taken place and it is important we recognise the valuable work this session has done and that the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly has done over a period of time.

As a former Member of Seanad Éireann, and having been briefly a member of the then British-Irish Inter-Parliamentary Assembly and the honour of being its Vice Chairman, it was a pleasure to see the assembly meet in the Upper House. It is good to reflect on such an auspicious occasion. The plenary session marked the first time the British Irish Parliamentary Assembly met in the Seanad. It is good to see it becoming a small part of the history of the Upper House, a House that has produced so many political luminaries - our first President, Dubhghlas de hÍde, our first female President, Mary Robinson, and the late Taoiseach Garret FitzGerald.

This morning, while thinking about the significance of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly, another well known former Senator came to mind, William Butler Yeats. He was better known as a poet, but he served in the Senate of the Irish Free State from 1922 to 1928. It was Yeats who wrote the immortal lines:

Out of Ireland have we come,

Great hatred, little room,

Maimed us at the start.

I carry from my mother's womb

A fanatic heart.

Those words are appropriate to reflect on today. Thankfully, in our time, the great hatreds on this island and between these islands are mellowing and have, in fact, given way to a new and unprecedented era of co-operation between the Irish and British peoples.

Part of the reason for this magnificent and long overdue transformation has been the work of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly. In 1990, this body met for the first time under the co-chairmanship of Peter Temple-Morris MP and my late party colleague, the inimitable Jim Tunney. The then British-Irish Inter-Parliamentary Body held its inaugural meeting in a very different political climate. It was a time when fear and murder still stalked the streets of Northern Ireland and a time when great hatreds and mutual suspicion all too often characterised Anglo-Irish relations. So much has changed in a generation and the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly has played a significant part in building co-operation out of conflict and friendship among former foes. The perseverance and success of parliamentarians from each of the democratic assemblies on these islands has proven to be so fruitful.

This great and enduring work has underpinned peace when for generations people said it could not be done and that we would always have conflict between Ireland and Britain. In more modern times, this same spirit of co-operation will help our respective nations to get through and beyond the effects of the worst global recession since the era of the Wall Street Crash.

I commend the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly, especially its respective co-chairs, Deputy Joe McHugh and Rt. Hon. Laurence Robertson MP, for the valuable work been done in the plenary session and for their foresight in focusing on economic and trade matters which are so essential to our shared futures. I sincerely believe the solution to the economic crisis we are experiencing will be achieved through the wise use of trade and investment. The United Kingdom and Ireland have a mutually beneficial relationship in this regard. So much of the plenary session was about building on the solid foundations already there, and that is welcome.

I do not want to get caught up on a ream of meaningless figures and I will confine myself to citing two significant statistics which illustrate how our respective economies are helping each other in these difficult times. The UK accounts for 42% of total Irish exports, and Ireland is the fifth largest market for British businesses. What those two vital statistics say to me is that it is absolutely essential that we continue to develop our trading relationships, particularly in the context of the economic downturn. Working together we are stronger and as good neighbours we should not be afraid to pull together on matters of mutual economic benefit.

This fiscal crisis has been a crisis of globalisation. It has no respect for national borders and many nations, not only Ireland or Britain, are facing unprecedented economic pressures. A crisis of this size requires co-operation and shared approaches to restoring growth. In that regard, my party fully endorses the innovative and worthwhile proposal made at the plenary session by Mr. Sean O'Driscoll, CEO and chairman of Glen Dimplex, for an annual British Irish trade mission. I was pleased to learn that the annual trade mission proposal has received the backing of the assembly members and that Deputy McHugh and Rt. Hon. Laurence Robertson MP will now put this proposal before the respective Governments. Nothing but good can come from having an annual British-Irish trade mission, led by either the Taoiseach or the Prime Minister or Cabinet Members, and including business leaders, to explore trade opportunities between our two nations. In today's competitive global marketplace we must give ourselves every advantage and that is the value of this gathering.

For over two decades, the British Irish Parliamentary Assembly has been involved in pushing practical, wise and, at times, ingenious ideas to benefit the people who we all represent. Parliamentary work is often described by those outside as turgid, but in the past this assembly has shown it can make a hugely positive difference to the lives of people in Britain and Ireland and never was this more true than in its work to stop the senseless violence in Northern Ireland. The British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly provided so much of the building blocks that became the Good Friday Agreement, the St. Andrews Agreement and the Hillsborough Agreement from which lasting peace has flowed. It is not an understatement to say the work of this body has also been a triumph for constitutionalism and parliamentary democracy. Since its inception, the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly has brought together democratically elected politicians from across Ireland and the United Kingdom with a view to finding real and just solutions to the shared problems we faced through constructive dialogue and mutual respect, and never through the threat of force.

The success of those efforts was reflected in the capital city of this sovereign Republic exactly one year ago today. On that occasion, Queen Elizabeth II, as the British Head of State, laid a wreath in the Garden of Remembrance, which honours those who fought for Irish freedom down through the ages. This act was symbolic of the new maturity in British-Irish relations. The warmth with which this action was received also vindicated the vision and political courage of former Taoiseach Brian Cowen, who had extended the invitation to the Queen through Prime Minister Cameron in June 2010 and who had stated such a visit was now desirable as "part of the normal courtesies enjoyed by friendly, neighbouring states."

This visit has shown the British and Irish people that we should not ignore our history and our long interaction with each other. More importantly, whether we are proud to be Irish or English, Scottish or Welsh, British or from the Isle of Man, Jersey or Guernsey, we all can work constructively together for the common good of our respective nations.

I started by quoting Yeats and I want to conclude by quoting another individual prominent in the psyche of Irish history, the late US President John Fitzgerald Kennedy. In a famous speech at the American University in summer 1963, Kennedy appealed for an end to the Cold War. Now that the cold war between Britain and Ireland has finally been replaced by a new era of warmth and respect, there is something very apt about Kennedy's words:

let us ... direct attention to our common interests and to the means by which those differences can be resolved... For, in the final analysis, our most basic common link is that we all inhabit this planet. We all breathe the same air. We all cherish our children's future. And we are all mortal.

Martin Ferris (Kerry North-West Limerick, Sinn Fein)
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In 1990, the year of the setting-up of the then British-Irish Inter-Parliamentary Body, we lived in a different place in so far as circumstances prevailing at that time meant there was conflict, there were people being killed, there were bombings, there was state violence, and there were arrests, detentions and imprisonments. There was, around that time and maybe a few years earlier, the beginning of a serious effort to bring about dialogue and negotiations. There were the courageous efforts of the Hume-Adams initiative. There were also those who still remain nameless but who worked behind the scenes to help bring about a situation whereby it was possible to resolve the reasons for conflict in a humane way and through dialogue and negotiation.

During the period to which I refer, the British and Irish Governments recognised a security agenda would not deliver a lasting peace. The IRA ceasefire was still four years away and it would be eight years until the Good Friday Agreement emerged. I was a prisoner in Portlaoise Prison at that time. I was incarcerated with hundreds of republican and other prisoners. We always had hope and a sense that people would come to the understanding that we had to find different ways of dealing with the outstanding issues that existed and of pursuing our objectives. The IRA ceasefire came into effect on 1 September 1994. This gave John Major the opportunity to approach the matter in a positive way but, unfortunately, he was the leader of a weakened Government which was dependent upon the Unionists. The ceasefire collapsed but thankfully there was a change of Government in England in 1997, when Tony Blair came to power. There was also a change of Government in the Twenty-six Counties. In addition, the former President of the United States, Bill Clinton, became involved. The coming together of all these progressive forces effectively led to the implementation of a second IRA ceasefire and to the commencement of negotiations.

I am not interested in scoring points and I am of the view it is good that matters are where they currently stand. It must be noted, however, there were doubters, especially in the political arena, who believed what eventually came to pass could never have happened. It did happen because progressive people, elements and leaders in the various parties and within the two Governments were prepared to look ahead and to try to build a future for our children. Their aim was to leave a positive legacy for the generations to come.

We moved on, negotiations took place and the Good Friday Agreement came into being. Again, the latter involved a historic compromise and people of political influence were able to deliver their respective constituencies. The outcome of the process relating to the Good Friday Agreement has led us to where we now find ourselves. Subsequently, the St. Andrews and Hillsborough Agreements were brought forward and we are now living in a far better place. I must acknowledge the role played by the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly during the long period to which I refer. When one is living through events, it often seems they take a long time to transpire. When one looks at them through the prism of history, however, and in the context of conflict resolution and so forth, one can see the period involved is very short. That is particularly true when one is aware of the place from which one came. All of us in this House have lived through such a period. The Tánaiste and I might have more of an understanding of other types of struggle in the context of our respective parties and so on.

There are some outstanding and, indeed, very painful issues which remain to be considered and resolved. I refer, in particular, to the Dublin and Monaghan bombings. Today is the 38th anniversary of the bombing of certain parts of this city.

Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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That is right.

Martin Ferris (Kerry North-West Limerick, Sinn Fein)
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Some 34 people were killed on 17 May 1974 and, as yet, they have not received justice. Neither have their families received the support of or a commitment from the Garda or the British authorities in the context of a resolution of the outstanding problems. Those of us who are members of the Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement have met the victims' families on a number of occasions. We met the families of the Monaghan victims in the very recent past. Even the funding provided to assist these people in their efforts has been cut. The Taoiseach has given a commitment - I hope he lives up to it - to restore the funding in question. All that is involved is a small sum of money to assist people in trying to seek justice for their lost loved ones. There is no doubt they deserve it.

There is also an outstanding issue in respect of the Ballymurphy massacre. The legacy of the latter is extremely painful for the families of those who were cut down in their own community by British forces. The McEntee report indicates those who carried out inquiries into these matters were significantly restricted in their investigations by the refusal of the British authorities to co-operate. The British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly needs to exert pressure on the Irish and British Governments and the security services in order that a just resolution in respect of the painful matters to which I refer and the legacy with which the victims' relatives have been obliged to live.

My party and I are strongly of the view that what is needed to resolve these issues is a commitment to establish an international truth commission. Such an entity would allow us to begin a process of national and international reconciliation. If a truth commission were put in place, it would allow us to clean the slate. The families of the victims, who are themselves also victims, would have the opportunity to witness reconciliation for everyone involved in their lifetimes. This has already been done to a large extent in South Africa, which experienced a very painful period of political, state-sponsored and reactionary violence. All that is required to establish an international truth commission is the requisite political will.

I am an Irish republican and I want to see an end to the Union. I am sure everyone in the House shares the same aspiration. I want to bring about a united Ireland in which people can determine the future together. The Union is becoming less relevant and significant, both in this country and in Britain, where the Scottish Parliament and Welsh Assembly are now in existence. The Tánaiste referred to the economic benefits relating to the peace process and so forth. The economic benefits to the island of Ireland of ending the Union are extremely transparent. There are many duplicate structures on this island, including those relating to agriculture, tourism and policing. We could be working together to bring about a situation whereby it would be far more economically beneficial for the island of Ireland to have a single structure in place. That is all possible. Provision is made in the Good Friday Agreement to move towards bringing about an end to British control in the Six Counties with the consent of the people who live there.

As already stated, when one is living through events they seem to take a very long time to transpire. When we look back, however, we can see that this has been quite a short period in our history. We have managed to bring 99.9% of the people to a place where it will be possible to resolve our outstanding difficulties in a peaceful manner. I have been associated with the struggle in the past and there are those on the other side of the House who were associated with it in the early 1970s. I refer to certain members of the Government who were involved in the same form of struggle with which I was associated.

Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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That is right.

Martin Ferris (Kerry North-West Limerick, Sinn Fein)
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Through that involvement, both I and those to whom I refer learned the benefit of negotiation and dialogue. Having being in involved in the struggle, I can state absolutely we are now in a much better place. I give credit to those who were responsible for instigating the process under discussion. I refer, in particular, to very courageous people such as Deputy Adams and John Hume, who were responsible for kick-starting the whole thing.

Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle for the opportunity to speak on this debate on the 44th plenary session of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly, BIPA. I thank and commend all my colleagues for their work on this body. However, it is up to all Members, both Deputies and Senators, to play our part in building and developing relationships on the island and between the islands. We should never take the peace process for granted and we all have a part to play in furthering conflict resolution, which is why I am supportive of the BIPA. I thank and commend Deputy McHugh, chairman of the BIPA, and his co-chair, Laurence Robertson MP, for their work on this noble project. Regardless of political differences in this House, they are doing an excellent job and have the support of all parties and Independents.

When the assembly comes to Dublin, it gets a massive reception with the Taoiseach, Tánaiste and Ministers turning up. The same happens in the North and it is warmly received when it attends Scotland. However, I have heard from BIPA members that they are not happy with some sections of the British establishment when the plenary is held in London. The British Government and those involved would want to take this parliamentary body seriously. It makes a massive contribution to peace and justice throughout the islands which is important.

Deputy Ferris mentioned that today is the 38th anniversary of the Dublin-Monaghan bombings. I offer my support and sympathy to the families who I believe are marking it on Talbot Street. Many Members were invited but could not make it because we are speaking in this debate. It is important we remember the victims. When their support group looks for funding, they should be supported by the Government. I was saddened to learn in the past 24 hours that the office for Justice for the Forgotten is now located in a portakabin in a back garden in north county Dublin because it could not get funding, some €14,000, for office facilities.

It is important we zoom in regularly and remind ourselves of the rights of citizens in the North and the South and the basic principles in the Good Friday Agreement. One of these basic principles is accommodating diversity and enjoying difference, in which the BIPA has been directly involved. However, we need to get that down to ground level and be more supportive of people at community level involved in projects accommodating diversity. I have met many of them over the past six months who have briefed us on the situation. They are concerned about sections of the peace process and conflict resolution that are not going well and about sectarian divisions on the ground. Sectarianism, like racism, can never be tolerated. As we all come from different religions and cultures, we can enjoy their diversity. I welcome Deputy Martin Ferris's call for a truth commission. We must think of the victims of 30 years of violence and their families who deserve the truth and explanations. I urge the BIPA to take up this call.

We must also look at the radical changes in population structures in the past three years in the North. We soon could have a Catholic Nationalist majority there. I know the numbers game is complex and that detailed and complex constitutional issues could arise. I was saddened during the presidential campaign when some regularly spoke of some candidates from the North as those people up there. We all live on the island and we should work closely together. I want to see a calm debate and not an emotional rant. In last year's Assembly elections, 48% voted Unionist while 42% voted Nationalist and 7.7% non-Unionist or non-Nationalist. However, when one examines third level college participation, another picture emerges. There are 20,995 students from Catholic backgrounds, which is 59.3%, while 14,410 are from Protestant backgrounds, which is 40%. Many from the Protestant religion attend third level in the UK and then take up job offers there after graduation. We need to examine population trends in the North in a calm and measured way. Are we in the South mentally prepared for that? Will those who claim they are democrats respect the result of a ballot on the future of the North? The status quo there is up for grabs. We have to be radical, free-thinking and out there. There are several options such as unity, joint sovereignty, some form of federalism or even an independent North. All these must be discussed in a non-threatening way over the next several years in order that we are prepared for it.

One element of the BIPA's work I fully support is the all-Ireland economy and I commend Padraic White for his work on this. I have heard positive reports from the North-South Ministerial Councils where Ministers were swapping telephone numbers while Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness have been trying to facilitate informal contacts. We need to examine this as a serious option. It can also help the Government in its calls for economic growth and job creation. This is a small island and we could do much if we agree on an all-Ireland economy.

My local football club, Shelbourne, has strong links with Linfield football club which has strong Unionist ties. I have met some of the club's members when they have been down in Tolka Park at some great social nights. Many people are breaking down barriers on the ground. I commend the Shelbourne supporters for their work in ending sectarianism.

The BIPA has made a massive contribution to the peace process. There is, however, significant potential to build on the successes of the peace process of the past decade. There are also ways of deepening the relationships between these islands. People have different views. I come from the democratic republican view and do not agree in monarchies, believing people should be elected on merit. I do not expect everyone to fully agree with this but, equally, I expect other people to accommodate my point of view as well. I wish the BIPA well. It contains different points of views and solutions. I hope it will encourage conflict resolution more, deal with sectarianism and population trends in the North, as well as continuing its good work in building an all-Ireland economy.

Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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I want to put on record, on behalf of my co-chairperson, Laurence Robertson MP, and BIPA members, our thanks to the Ceann Comhairle, the Cathaoirleach, the Captain and the ushers for the fantastic welcome that was given this week to the 44th plenary session.

I thank the Tánaiste for the opportunity to debate the plenary session in the Chamber, and as co-chair a key aim of mine is to make the work of the assembly transparent and focused on practical outcomes. That is the reason I introduced a number of innovations for this year's plenary session, including having the debate televised live, seeking a debate in the Dáil on its outcome and selecting a theme inviting practical outcomes, which makes business easier between Britain and Ireland. The assembly plays a valuable role and I wanted to bring it to the attention of the public and hold ourselves to account. We should follow up on some key ideas from the plenary session.

The Taoiseach, in addressing the plenary session, called on us to be ambitious about the role the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly can play, and I, along with other members, take up that challenge. Before mentioning a few of the outcomes, I will make reference to the original objective of the British-Irish Inter-Parliamentary Body, as it was in 1990, which was to get people talking, build trust and create an environment where people could build relationships and work on many positive ideas in the peace process. With that in mind, I acknowledge the role of many former members who worked proactively and engaged in the peace process. I also acknowledge the officials, on both the British and Irish end, who have worked towards a well-crafted and well-written Good Friday Belfast Agreement. We should note the work done by officials. We are sometimes good at lauding our colleagues, peers and former political representatives but it is also important to acknowledge the role of officials.

In that regard I acknowledge the presence of Mr. Andrew Staunton, who represents the British Embassy today, and Ambassador Chilcott, who attended the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly for the first time. I acknowledge the presence of our deputy ambassador to London, Ms Barbara Jones, who was present during the plenary session. It was also significant to see the Northern Ireland Secretary of State, Mr. Owen Paterson, MP, who represented the British Government at a Cabinet level at the assembly.

The annual British-Irish trade mission proposal by Mr. Seán O'Driscoll, CEO of Glen Dimplex, was worthy and went down very well with assembly members. It is an idea I will pursue with my members and the steering committee of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly in future. It would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the Tánaiste, Deputy Gilmore, who is the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. He is sitting next to me. We offer our facilities in working towards the idea of a possible British-Irish trade mission. As Irish people we sometimes forget what is on our doorstep and believe faraway fields are constantly greener. These may be trade missions to Beijing or deepening relationships with Boston or Berlin. We should not forget the close and intrinsic link with the British community. As the Taoiseach stated, it is our closest economic ally and friend. That issue is worth pursuing and as was suggested at the plenary session, perhaps something could be done in conjunction with the Gathering in 2013. We are looking at a date in March 2013 for a meeting of the assembly, and we hope that will take in the idea of developing stronger relationships within the business community.

I acknowledge the contributions by many members on health synergies across Britain and Ireland. There is the success of the partnership approach between the Irish Government and the Northern Ireland Executive to develop radiotherapy facilities at Altnagelvin Hospital, and we should expand that to other potential areas of cross-Border and east-west co-operation. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan referred to the process where Irish boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy go to Newcastle to avail of services to treat the disease. The Minister for Health was present on Monday, and he indicated it is not feasible to expect all rare diseases to be managed on a stand-alone basis by individual jurisdictions. There are significant advantages from a quality and economies of scale perspective to widening these matters beyond borders. Although we are focused primarily on the site of the new children's hospital in Ireland, we should also examine how to work together on sharing services. There will be co-operation behind the scenes but if we are to have a state of the art children's hospital providing a range of services, we should consider shared services and synergies on an east-west basis.

The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport spoke about transport challenges in aviation, ferries and cabotage as it relates to the haulage industry. It was interesting in that respect to see 100% participation of Welsh Assembly members on that issue, which is indicative of the unique links in this regard between Wales and Ireland. We can co-operate on those matters in future.

Ms Darina Allen gave valuable insight into the future of food tourism with potential synergies in that area. It was a valid contribution that took in regulation and how nonsensical regulation can impinge on people developing their own businesses. We must be conscious of that.

As well as pursuing the outcomes I have set out, I will also follow through on the new areas of shared interest which emerged during the debate and which will inform the agenda of future meetings. Peripheral to the meeting was energy security, and I will bring the matter to the steering committee in July. We may shape the next Irish plenary session around the area of energy security. This does not just deal with transmission of energy - at that stage we will have the interconnector between the UK and Ireland that EirGrid will operate - but rather how to get communities involved and overcome obstacles to grid access. There is also the difficult local planning issues that come with wind turbines. I will propose that we consider offshore energy, including ocean and tidal technology, at the next session.

There were other issues raised, such as the lack of price honesty from airlines, the importance of the decade of centenaries, the strengthening of the common travel area and the creation of a mini-Schengen area between Britain and Ireland. President Higgins stated:

The debates, discussions and reports are important in themselves but their true value lies outside the plenary session. What you learn and share over the course of the sessions must be used to inform and enhance the debates in your own legislative assemblies but also, more importantly, in your own communities.

Our assembly has risen to the challenge and we do not want to work as an independent unit. We want to work with other assemblies and Ministers with portfolios. I thank the Tánaiste and the Government as a whole for facilitating this morning's session. We are looking for continuity and we will work in a proactive way. I look forward to updating the Parliament about this work regularly.

Séamus Kirk (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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This is a brief opportunity for us to make some comments and observations about the recently held British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly, which took place in the Leinster House for the first time. Before elaborating on the session, I take this opportunity to congratulate the co-chairs, Deputy McHugh and Mr. Laurence Robertson, MP, on their handling and general organisation of the plenary session in the House. These things are not possible without the organisational skills and know-how of the backroom staff in the secretariat, both here and in Britain, and, of course, the ushers and the Captain of the Guard and all those who paved the way for a difficulty-free event in Dublin.

The British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly has a mission to promote co-operation between political representatives in Britain and Ireland. It was first established as the British-Irish Inter-Parliamentary Body in 1990. In 2001 its membership was enlarged to include Members of the Scottish Parliament, the Welsh Assembly, the Northern Ireland Assembly, the High Court of Tynwald and the States of Guernsey and Jersey. All these bodies are enthusiastic participants in the work of the assembly which deals with non-legislative parliamentary activities and meets on a biannual basis, with meetings of various committees being held in between. There are four committees dealing with sovereign matters, European affairs, economic matters and environmental and social issues. There is potential within their deliberations to consider a range of issues affecting the populace of the island as a whole and in Britain.

There are still several aspects of the Good Friday Agreement and the St. Andrew's Agreement that remain to be completed. It is important that progress be made on the Bill of Rights for Northern Ireland, while progress on the establishment of the North-South parliamentary forum has also been slow. There is a working group in the Oireachtas and Stormont and clearly there is a well of goodwill on both sides. However, we have not yet got it over the line, but I hope we will do so soon. When I was Ceann Comhairle, we had one meeting in Newcastle, County Down which demonstrated the potential of the inter-parliamentary grouping getting together on a regular basis. I hope to see progress made on this issue today.

The inquiry into the murder of the solicitor Pat Finucane must expedited as quickly as possible. The Smithwick tribunal is examining the murder of the RUC officers north of the Border.

Britain is our nearest neighbour and if we proceed on the basis that trade is the oxygen of economic activity, the development of further and stronger trade links between this country and Britain is obvious, particularly when there are so many issues of common interest such as the Common Agricultural Policy, of which the next phase is being negotiated at EU level. Simultaneously there are ambitious plans for the dairy industry in Food Harvest 2020. In the last year we have seen serious problems for individual farmers who have found themselves with a super-levy problem, while at the same time dairy farmers in the North had surplus quota that remained unfilled. There are also dairy co-operatives in Border areas which use producers from both the North and the South. I have been advocating for a long time the putting in place of a bilateral arrangement on this issue; it would be of benefit to farmers and the dairy industry and help with job creation on both sides of the Border. It is an obvious area and the sharing of quotas would carry no direct cost. It is a great pity we have not succeeded in convincing the powers that be at Commission level of the merits of this proposal.

Many NAMA properties in Britain were built by Irish-based developers. That is an area in which there a great deal of activity.

Those who spoke at the assembly this week underlined the potential in the health sector. As a Border representative, I know at first hand of the potential for enhanced co-operation and the development of strategies for more inclusive health care strategies on the whole island, an issue on which I hope progress can be made. We were fortunate to have the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport at the session to deal with issues in these areas which clearly offer potential for enhanced co-operation and joint ventures.

We did not deal with one issue that we should examine at subsequent meetings - community relations in the North. There is no doubt that there is some distance to go in building peaceful and harmonious relationships between communities in the North. There are areas in which there are still tensions and hostility. Perhaps they do not hit the headlines to the same extent they did in the past, but as a body, we must be aware of them and ask ourselves how best we can help to develop the more harmonious relationships that would be beneficial to all of us.

Conventional economic activity in the North would be of huge benefit. Its economy is dependent on the public sector and industrial development has been slow. If progress can be made on this front, it will benefit everyone on the whole island, particularly the unemployed in the North.

We must look at existing cross-Border bodies. There is a need to constantly review their role and sharpen their focus and perhaps change direction, where necessary, to ensure they achieve the objectives and goals set for them. As I said, the establishment of the parliamentary forum would help enormously. The opportunities for Members of this House to meet on a regular basis with MLAs to exchange views and progress the issues mentioned are obvious. I hope all those involved can bring influence to bear on those who will decide on how soon it can be established. Let us hope we see progress in the near future.

The victims of the Troubles are mentioned regularly. While there is no off-the-shelf formula to deal with the issue, there are those who still live with the trauma, grief and bereavement as a result of family members being killed, disabled or maimed because of the Troubles. We must review this issue to consider how we can provide a support structure and ensure they are remembered as part of the ongoing process of reconciliation in the North. I hope the issue can be addressed by the steering committee when it is planning the next plenary meeting and subsequent sessions.

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael)
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Cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire Stáit, an Teachta McGinley. Tá a fhios agam go bhfuil an-suim aige san ábhar seo.

I was honoured to be invited to become a member of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly. On one occasion the old British-Irish Inter-Parliamentary Body held a meeting in Adare in my constituency during the term of office of the last rainbow coalition Government which coincided with the tragic and untimely death of Garda Jerry McCabe. One thing I have garnered from my membership of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly during the short time I have been a member is that it gives us an opportunity to make personal contact with people with whom we would not otherwise have contact. This allows us to get a better understanding of the issues they must confront and the manner in which they deal with them. Often they are similar to the issues facing us. In addition, it gives us an opportunity on an informal and social basis to build up trust and a relationship that permeates up to ministerial level. It is important that there is a social element to the assembly as well. The Minister of State, Deputy Brian Hayes, formerly a member of the British Irish Parliamentary Assembly, came back to speak to it. The Taoiseach is a former member of the assembly as well.

I am pleased to have the opportunity to speak about the assembly. Three things were to be taken on board by the Oireachtas. Deputy McHugh has already referred to the first matter. I congratulate him and Mr. Laurence Robertson, MP, on the manner in which the event was chaired. The first issue I wish to raise relates to muscular dystrophy. I have a particular interest in this issue. I noted at the assembly that one cannot have a situation whereby every hospital in Ireland is able to offer an expertise for every rare illness. However, there is a facility available to parents of boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy in Newcastle-upon-Tyne through using the E112 form. It is important the procedure is allowed to continue and I made that point strongly to the Minister for Health. I was glad that my colleagues supported my remarks and that the Minister intends to come back to me on the matter.

Two proposals came from the head of Glen Dimplex. The first relates to an opportunity to be provided to Irish civil servants to do a stint in the United Kingdom, and vice versa, on a voluntary basis to get an understanding of how things work there, what works and what does not work. The second proposal involves trade missions being swapped on a biannual basis between Britain and Ireland. They are to be led at prime ministerial level, either by the UK Prime Minister or the Taoiseach, to show that there is a symbiotic relationship between Ireland and the United Kingdom. It is worth a good deal of money on an annual basis across the Irish Sea in terms of the trade between the two countries. Sometimes there is a temptation to forget those closest to us. Our closest neighbour is also our largest trading partner.

I was speaking to my colleague, Deputy Wall, before I rose to speak in the House. As a result of this week's programme, the bar has been lifted high for the British side on the return leg to Glasgow. There is no doubt the calibre of speakers and the location gave great credibility to the British Irish Parliamentary Assembly by virtue of the fact that it met in the Chamber of a parliament and the fact the Taoiseach was present. The same should be expected on the return leg. That is not to put any pressure on our British colleagues but they have seen a full and engaging programme. All members were delighted by the manner in which it was organised. Credit is due to the clerks and those who organised it.

It is important the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly is given an opportunity to feed into the North-South Ministerial Council and the British-Irish Council. At that stage there will be proper parliamentary representation and ministerial decision-making as well as having the Executive represented at the North-South Ministerial Council and the British-Irish Council. There is a great opportunity for the assembly to liaise with the two ministerial councils. I call on the co-chair to take this on board.

John Paul Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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I thank my colleague for giving me some of his time to speak. I agree with the remarks of my colleagues on the importance of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly having an input and role in the North-South Ministerial Council and the British-Irish Council. I have been a member of the British-Irish body since the last general election. I commend Deputy McHugh on his role as co-chair as well as the Irish officials on organising what was an outstanding programme that made up the recent meeting which took place from Sunday to Tuesday. The quality of the content and speakers and the events organised were noted by the British members of the assembly. I commend all involved on organising the meetings. They made a significant impact on people, especially those outside of Ireland who took part in the proceedings during these two or three days.

I agree with the previous speaker in respect of some of the important points raised during the assembly. The nature of the assembly is that specific issues are dealt with sometimes, but the primary function is to build relationships between public representatives on this island and neighbouring islands. It is and has been a successful organisation in terms of building these relationships.

I was struck by the comments of Deputy Kirk earlier. He remarked that he represents a Border constituency. I represent a constituency that is a long way from the Border but there are many individuals and businesses in my constituency of Carlow-Kilkenny with significant links especially across the Irish Sea. It is important that Members, who perhaps are not representative of Border constituencies but who are interested in fostering these links, have the opportunity to do so. I was struck by some of the contributions during the two days of the meeting. Reference was made to muscular dystrophy and how there is a facility available in Newcastle-upon-Tyne in the UK and the importance of keeping that facility available for those who suffer from that particular debilitating illness in this country. Reference was also made to an issue which has been ongoing for several years, that is, the reciprocal acceptance of penalty points in jurisdictions on both sides of the Border and across the Irish Sea. This is an area in which the assembly has some input. It appears we may be moving towards a reciprocal arrangement in all jurisdictions.

I commend the Ministers who took part in the discussion. Three members of the Cabinet were present: the Taoiseach, the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport and the Minister for Health, as well as the Minister of State at the Department of Finance with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, Deputy Brian Hayes. They contributed to worthwhile discussions and stayed to answer many questions, often on specific issues raised by members of the assembly. There was a full and frank exchange of views between the members and the Ministers who turned up. I commend them for their efforts.

I look forward to the next assembly, due to take place in Glasgow towards the end of the year. I cannot emphasise enough the importance of how events such as this bring representatives together. I note how far we have come in terms of the relationship between politicians on all sides on the islands we inhabit and the nature of the close relations now compared with some of the uncertainties and doubts in the not too distant past. It is about normalising relationships. That is the term we use. The British Irish Parliamentary Assembly is an easily identifiable arena where these relationships can be normalised. I wish the assembly continued success in future.

Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
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I see the co-chair, Deputy Joe McHugh, across the Chamber. I commend him for the excellent job of co-chairing what was a most successful gathering of the assembly in the Seanad Chamber earlier this week. The BIPA has been in existence for 20 years. Much has changed on this island and between these islands during these two decades, much of it for the good. This is especially the case with the peace process in the North. With the dawn of peace and the end to hostilities, people have had the time and space to get to know each other and to understand each other a good deal better, especially the Unionist and republican communities in the North. The imagery of Ian Paisley and Martin McGuinness travelling to America together seeking inward investment for their people, and then Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness doing likewise, is powerful. Many events have taken place in recent times that were successful. I acknowledge that the initiative that saw the Queen of England come here last year was a success and a sign that the relationship between the peoples of these islands is healing.

In terms of what we do with that, it is now time to take it to the next level. I know Deputy Joe McHugh, as a representative of the people of Donegal North East, would share that view. The Minister of State, Deputy McGinley, also represents the people of Donegal. We know the impact of partition on our county and how the potential of our county was hampered by having two health services, two education systems and two taxation systems. Effectively, we had two economies back to back in that small region and we need to break that down step by step.

We have had positive developments such as the sharing of cancer services with Altnagelvin hospital going ahead. That was a cross-party, cross-community campaign and even when it appeared to be under threat from the northern end, Unionists and Nationalists, all political colours and creeds, stood together and defended that important piece of health infrastructure for our region. That was only right because there are half a million people in the north west of Ireland, and we need the same equality as everybody else.

In terms of the A5 project, we now have motorways from Dublin to Galway, Limerick, Cork, Waterford and Belfast, and rightly so, but we need the same infrastructure coming into the north west of Ireland. Derry is the fourth largest city on the island. Half a million people live in the north west. We have a population broadly similar to the south west and we need the same infrastructure. We are looking for equality, nothing less or nothing more. That objective must be advanced, and we can do that through the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly.

More important than addressing the deficits in the north west caused by partition and the Administrations in Dublin and Belfast not seeing our part of the island is the potential for the all-island economy. I had the honour of serving on the board of InterTrade Ireland for more than three years where I saw academic institutions in the North being connected to businesses in the south, and vice versa. It had a vision for all-Ireland infrastructure, preparing for a population of 8 million by 2020, and people combining their skills. This is a small island of 6 million people. It is interesting that there is no opposition within unionism for what Unionists call common sense co-operation in terms of building an all-Ireland economy, harmonising our approach to taxation and having a joint approach whenever we go overseas. We should not have a situation where Invest Northern Ireland, IDA Ireland or Enterprise are singing from different hymn sheets when they promote job creation overseas. We should promote the potential of the entire island. We should bring together science parks and academic links, and do everything we can to join up the dots of this island because we are in this together. That is the key objective of the BIPA.

We also need to develop our understanding of each other as a people. For hundreds of years there has been conflict between our peoples. It is only in recent times that we have had breathing space. There must be that development of that relationship. I am also conscious that the BIPA includes representatives of the Northern Assembly, the Welsh Assembly, the Scottish Assembly, the Isle of Man and Jersey but the Northern, Welsh and Scottish Assemblies represent democracy being brought closer to people and giving them a sense of identity and purpose with which we in Ireland can work in partnership. When one has conversations with Assembly members from Scotland and Wales the sense of connectedness they have with Ireland is interesting.

We must look increasingly at the BIPA as an assembly that can deliver, that has teeth, stands together and speaks with one voice on key objectives. I suggest that an all-Ireland economy, addressing the infrastructure deficit in the north west of Ireland, sharing health and education services and making use of the resources we have in an intelligent, common sense way must be at the top of the assembly's agenda to be addressed in the foreseeable future.

I commend the Co-Chairman who did an excellent job. It was a well put together, high level session attended by the Taoiseach down to all the Ministers, a range of civil society players and business players who spoke about practical ways we can co-operate and who were generous in taking a wide range of questions. The amount of time given by senior politicians in Ireland to engage on the different issues was noticeable. I agree with the previous speaker that the bar has been set high for the next session in Glasgow, and we can take it from there. Well done to the Co-Chairman, and I look forward to working on a practical basis to see what we can develop together through the assembly.

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
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I am delighted to speak about this important body. Ar an gcéad dul síos, ba mhaith liom comhgairdeas a ghabháil leis an gcathaoirleach, an Teachta Joe McHugh, and his co-chairman, Mr. Laurence Robertson, MP. In particular I commend Deputy Joe McHugh on the excellent manner in which he arranged and conducted this plenary session in Baile Átha Cliath. It was a show piece, and I thank the officials and the clerks for their work, including the previous clerk who was honoured at a function the other night for his work in the past. We set a very high standard in Dublin which is to be envied by Scotland, Wales and Britain. I am not saying they have to live up to it but I hope they do. We put our best foot forward.

The session was attended by captains of industry. It was a high powered session attended also by the Taoiseach, the Minister for Health and the Minister for Transport. The Northern Ireland Secretary attended also. I have been to Brighton for one of the sessions. I have been a member only since the election of this Dáil and we had nothing like that calibre of Government Ministers or a Taoiseach at that session. It is important to give credibility and a sense of recognition to this body. As the Taoiseach stated, England is our closest partner and is closest to us economically. That was not the case in the past when we had many differences but in time we left those behind because developments are taking place in Europe on an hourly basis and we do not how much we will need Great Britain for support.

I refer to the back room staff who worked diligently, not just on the Sunday night, the Monday and the Tuesday but for months in advance of the session. I am sure they will need weeks after it to tidy up the various arrangements. On the first night in the Shelbourne Hotel I was delighted to get the fine history from David-----

Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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Denis O'Brien.

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
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In terms of the history, I was so proud when he mentioned that a Tipperary man bought those three buildings fadó, fadó and turned them into a hotel. The adage is still apt: where Tipperary leads, Ireland follows.

Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour)
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Perhaps he was a Kilkenny man.

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
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We will see that in September when we are hoping for great things.

Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour)
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The Deputy hopes.

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
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We live in hope, and may the best team win.

Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)
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Denis O'Brien is a fine Gaelgoir.

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
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Tá sé go hiontach ar fad.

Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)
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Tá an-chuid Gaeilge aige agus labhraíonn sé Gaeilge i gcónaí liom.

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
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Go hiontach ar fad.

I compliment Deputy Jack Wall who did tremendous work and Deputy Arthur Spring, who is the rapporteur for our economic committee. We had two visits to London followed by a return visit here to prepare a report on the lack of funding for small business. In case we think the position is better in England it is experiencing the same problem with the banks. They will run out of money in 2014, which is startling. The credit union and business representatives we met spoke about having the same problem of access to credit. Despite the funds we have provided for the banks, they are still not lending. We must remove some of the massive debt the country owes and did not create - it was created by European banks, mainly German and French financial institutions - before trying to deal with the rest of the debt problem. Failing that, the ship of Europe could sink, but I will not dwell on that issue today.

I am delighted to be a member of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly which should be supported. In that respect, I acknowledge the support shown by the Taoiseach and Ministers at the assembly's meetings this week. I note also that a number of its committees with which I am not involved also produced reports. The assembly's meetings are not junkets but a forum in which serious and valuable work is done. I we heard the views of guest speakers, including, for example, the chief executive officer of Glenn Dimplex, to whom Deputy Joe McHugh referred, and a lady from a company in Dungarvan which provides a large number of jobs in Port Láirge. An MP from across the water asked the lady in question some serious questions about the pharmaceutical industry in general and her company, including questions about commodities and the industry's failure to step up to the mark. As a Deputy from the south east where the company in question provides such employment, I found the discussion interesting and worrying. Pharmaceutical companies must stand up to close scrutiny, irrespective of where they are located.

As well as completing a great deal of serious business, members of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly also do a great deal of socialising. I was delighted, on my first visit to Áras an Uachtaráin, to meet President Higgins and listen to him make an historic, inspiring, interesting and cultured speech. He light-heartedly informed us that he had spent a long time in the Seanad and referred to the Chamber's beautiful ceiling. I visited the Seanad for the first time the following day to view its ornate ceiling. The President was funny and delegates were well looked after in Áras an Uachtaráin. We had a wonderful visit after which we visited Dublin Castle. We may end up in Buckingham Palace some day if we remain on the committee for long enough.

The weekend was packed full of debate, discourse and discussion. Some heavy hits were also landed in the plenary sessions. The meeting was beneficial to our islands and long may the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly continue. I compliment those who established the body in more difficult times. It is noteworthy that its meeting in Brighton last October coincided with an anniversary about which many people wanted to forget. While many on the other side of the water resisted the proposal to hold the meeting in Brighton, it was an interesting experience. Everyone involved met in peace and harmony and there was very little security evident. Much more could be done, but we have moved far along the road.

The chairman of the economic group on which I sat, Deputy Jack Wall, did tremendous work and we learned many valuable lessons, not least that there was no point in being insular. It is important to travel and engage with people who have different views and ideas. Britain is experiencing the same problems as Ireland, albeit on a larger scale, given the size of its economy.

Deputy Joe McHugh and officials are planning a further plenary session in March 2013. I look forward to the Gathering in 2013 on which the Cabinet, notably the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Leo Varadkar, is working. Irish people, whether at home or abroad, are resilient and proud. Bringing Irish people living abroad back to the country as part of the Gathering will provide a great boost. Some of them may develop a new grá for the country and decide to stay and invest their money and expertise. The Gathering is based on the meitheal concept. I look forward to its various elements, whether in the areas of culture and heritage or the economy. It is important that we work together.

Previous speakers criticised cuts in the funding allocated to the A5 road from Monaghan to the North. The Government has provided initial funding of €15 million for the project. Such a financial commitment to roads in other areas on this side of the Border would be widely welcomed. We are in difficult times, but the commitment has been made and the seeds sown.

Discourse, dialogue and interaction do nothing but good and we make new friends all the time. I thank everyone involved in the meeting of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly, including officials. It was significant that it was held in the Seanad Chamber. It is good that our guests enjoyed the event because they will return home and tell people how hospitable and jovial we are and that we can have a bit of craic.

The media may be lashing Deputy Ann Phelan on the issue of caviar, but she is doing her best to promote a local, indigenous company in her native Kilkenny. We must support all indigenous companies, even if it means being slagged off in the media. Comhghairdeas leis an committee.

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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It is important that Deputies have an opportunity to address the House on the work of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly. I am pleased to do so and honoured to be a member of the assembly representing this House. As the Tánaiste noted, the British Irish Parliamentary Assembly is not only about Northern Ireland. Its work shows how relations between Ireland and Britain have matured during the years to the extent that Irish security matters no longer dominate proceedings. Its discussions are now more focused on east-west and cross-Border business and trade opportunities.

It is important to note that 42% of Irish exports go to Britain and that Ireland is Britain's fifth largest trading partner. The United Kingdom exports more to Ireland than Brazil, Russia, India and China combined, which is a startling figure. More than €1 billion worth of traded goods cross the Irish Sea every week. We have the tendency to take this for granted and sometimes do not realise the importance of our near neighbours.

As chairperson of the Fine Gael Party's internal committee on agriculture, I was particularly interested in championing the potential growth of our food and drink exports through my role in the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly. Britain is Ireland's largest food and drink export market and vice versa. If the ambitious target of expanding output and growing exports by more than 40% in this decade, as set out in Food Harvest 2020, is to be achieved, we will need to grow the British market further.

I was pleased to be able to question Eoin Tonge of Greencore on the company's sugar strategy and its view, as a major food producer, of the sugar industry. The decision to cease sugar production here was a major mistake. The high cost Irish companies are paying to source sugar and the difficulties they are experiencing in accessing supply prove this point. It was good, therefore, to have an opportunity to drive home this view which is shared by many farmers.

I also welcomed the opportunity to discuss with the co-chair of the meeting, Mr. Laurence Robertson, MP, whose constituency includes the Cheltenham racecourse, the potential for greater synergies between the Irish and British horse racing and breeding industries. I have a great deal in common with Mr. Robertson, given that the Curragh and Punchestown racecourses are in my constituency. It is interesting to note that he chairs the all-party parliamentary racing and bloodstock industries group in the British Parliament, the purpose of which is to promote the racing and bloodstock industries in parliament, inform Members of both Houses about them and serve their well-being. There is great merit in having such a parliamentary group and perhaps we should establish a similar group in the Oireachtas.

The Irish racing and breeding industries employ in excess of 17,000 people and have an annual value to the Exchequer of close to €1 billion. The British racing industry is worth £3.7 billion per annum and employs 20,000 people directly and a further 70,000 indirectly. In the light of current proposals to change our betting tax regime, I noted with great interest recent changes announced in the UK budget. Ireland and Britain are both seeking to expand their tax bases by introducing a remote betting tax regime, a change with which many countries are struggling. While I am aware that officials in his Department are working hard on this issue, the Minister for Finance must avail of the opportunity to urgently introduce proposed changes for a remote betting tax regime. Today Paddy Power announced a year-on-year increase of 241% in mobile phone betting revenue. Some 38% of sport betting stakes on paddypower.com came from mobile phone users. I welcome the success of Paddy Power which is a large employer in Ireland, but these figures illustrate the betting market is changing. It is vital that the Government adapt to that changing market and take an appropriate level of taxation from it. This would, in turn, help to fund the horse racing and breeding industries which are vital to the country. In Britain the return to the Exchequer in betting revenue is €131 million, while the return to racing is €84 million. In Ireland the return to racing from betting revenue is €27 million, but the return to the Government is zero. This needs to change. There is potential within the industry to grow this revenue and I urge the Department of Finance to do so as quickly as possible.

I have enjoyed my work on the committee chaired by Deputy Frank Feighan. Much work needs to be done on commemorations. It is important that we get the mood right in marking the many commemorations that will take place in the next ten years, particularly the centenary of the 1916 Rising, as well as the contribution of Irish people in the First World War. We must also acknowledge the sensitivities of all citizens on the island with regard to these occasions.

I look forward to the work continuing between the plenary sessions of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly when much work is done. I again thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle for giving me the opportunity to address the House on this matter.

Eoghan Murphy (Dublin South East, Fine Gael)
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I am not a member of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly, but I am happy to have the opportunity to take part in this debate and recognise the contribution of the assembly and the connections between our two Parliaments, as I have experienced them. I thank Deputy Joe McHugh for facilitating my request to speak.

When I was a student in the United Kingdom, I interned with a Labour Party MP for Reading.

Ciara Conway (Waterford, Labour)
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What happened?

Eoghan Murphy (Dublin South East, Fine Gael)
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This is a confession. I have not said this before publicly. I can only say I was led astray as a misguided youth. However, I had a great experience. In the period between the general election and the first sitting of this Dáil I travelled to Westminster where I met some Conservative Members of Parliament, one of whom was Mr. Brooks Newmark. As a result of that meeting there was a bilateral meeting between the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and the UK Minister with responsibility for small and medium enterprises. Because our parliamentary systems are so similar, there was a sharing of ideas. This is a good example of how parliamentarians in our two countries can work together.

In January another Conservative MP, Mr. Ben Gummer, introduced an idea about tax transparency in the British system. I saw this and got in touch with him. We started to work together and in March I was able to introduce the Tax Transparency Bill 2012. While that Bill is different from the work he is doing, it would not have come about without his initial idea and help. This is another positive example of the work done between our Parliaments and the things we share. There are connections outside the assembly which also does very good work.

There is a socialising element to the plenary sessions, as Deputy Mattie McGrath mentioned. I was not included, unfortunately. The next time the plenary session is held here it might be an idea to invite Members of the Oireachtas to some of the social events in order that we can make these connections. One never knows what they might lead to in the future.

Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Sinn Fein)
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Fáiltím roimh an deis labhairt ar an ábhar seo. I was surprised to hear Deputy Mattie McGrath had been in Áras an Uachtaráin on only one previous occasion. He might consider spending his political retirement within its hallowed walls as President. Who knows what would happen.

It was good to see our colleagues from the North of Ireland sitting in the Seanad today. I hope this is an indicator of what can happen in the future when representatives of all of Ulster, not just of three counties, might sit in the Oireachtas. We would like to see that sunny day sooner rather than later.

I agree that much of the focus needs to be put on the issue of trade. A previous speaker observed that Britain was our largest national trading partner. It should be noted, however, that there is a deficit in our trading relationship with Britain. Imports from Britain outstripped our exports to Britain by €228 million in the first three months of the year. There is potential to reverse that deficit, grow trade through increased exports and produce a surplus. We should look at some of the sectors in which that could be done. Yesterday the Central Statistics Office released figures demonstrating the increase in exports in certain sectors of the economy. The chemical and pharmaceutical sector showed the greatest increase and the highest proportion of exports. While that is to be welcome, it is important that the Government does not put all our eggs in one basket and that an effort is made to diversify in and promote other sectors. Too much pressure on one sector means it can be exposed to changes in the world economy.

Yesterday's figures also noted the strength of the agrifood industry. Most Deputies come from constituencies in which the agrifood sector is important. Unfortunately, it has been the Cinderella of the Irish export market. In the first three months of last year it contributed €685 million in exports and experienced an increase of €31 million this year. It has huge potential. It has the potential to create wealth and jobs in every corner of the State. The Government has been focusing on foreign direct investment and high-tech industries, rightly so. However, it is also important not to forget that large sections of our society are excluded from these high-tech industries because they do not have the communications infrastructure necessary for their development. If we can progress agrifood industries, we can sustain jobs and growth in all corners of the State and create wealth.

My own county of Meath is a leading producer of potatoes and a significant producer of beef, barley, milk, wheat and root vegetables. Our farmers would welcome an opportunity to showcase our quality produce in the export markets of Britain. I welcome the decision by the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly to support an annual British-Irish trade mission which I hope will focus on the quality of agrifoods.

Many small agrifood producers have latent capacity to export but do not have the necessary skills or experience. We need a programme within the Departments of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation that would identify these producers' target markets in Britain. The target markets would then be warmed by marketing activities and made aware of the producers here in Ireland; trade visits would be organised; the small agrifood producers would be hand-held on these trade missions and departmental officials would sit in with them during initial meetings until they had won their first export customers. These first few steps in seeking exports are easy for a large business but very daunting for a small agrifood producer. The Ministers and Ministers of State with responsibility in this area should focus on this issue and help small agrifood producers, not only in County Meath but also throughout the State, to take their first steps in the British market. It is also important that these small producers be up-skilled in marketing and have the necessary communications technology to develop websites in order to warm their target markets and sell directly to them.

Aontaím lena bhfuil ráite ag mo chomhghleacaí, an Teachta Pádraig Mac Lochlainn, agus lenár gcomhghleacaithe ar na bínsí os ár gcomhair. Impím ar an Rialtas níos mó a dhéanamh chun díriú isteach ar an earnáil feirmeoireachta. Tá an-deis againn ach níl an fomhar seo á bhaint. Caithfimid níos mó a dhéanamh chun go mbeidh muinitir na tuaithe in ann níos mó earraí a easpórtáil go dtí an Bhreatain.

Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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I congratulate the co-chairman, Deputy Joe McHugh, who is present in the Chamber, and his co-chairman, Mr. Laurence Robertson, MP. I especially thank Deputy McHugh for the arrangements he made for the occasion and its historic nature in that the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly, BIPA, met in the Seanad Chamber. It is a long time since there was such a strong ministerial presence at a BIPA meeting, which included the Taoiseach, the Minister for Health, Deputy Reilly, the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Varadkar, and the Minister of State, Deputy Brian Hayes. That added a new level to the event. As Deputy Patrick O'Donovan stated, it set the bar very high for future BIPA meetings. I heartily congratulate Deputy McHugh in that regard.

Many issues were discussed. Deputy Heydon referred to the sugar industry. Deputy Ann Phelan and I share his concern about the fact that the industry was lost to this country through a lack of initiative on the part of Government and the company involved. The statements made were true and factual in terms of the effort to reinvigorate the industry. The sugar industry would back up the agriculture industry which is going so well at present. If we could reinvigorate the sugar industry it would be another jewel in the crown of the agriculture sector and would mean this country would move away faster from the economic downturn to a positive situation. The spin-off effect of the sugar industry had to be seen to be believed. As a former employee I saw it at first hand.

As Deputy Mattie McGrath indicated, I was chairman of a committee. I sincerely congratulate and thank Ms Jullee Clarke, the clerk of the committee, and Ms Judith Boyce, her counterpart in the UK, for the time and effort they put in to ensure we got such a representative range of presentations at all the meetings we held in London and Dublin. Some of the conclusions that were reached should be read into the record of the House. Small and medium enterprises are one of the pillars of recovery from the current situation.

1.1 Small and medium sized businesses are of huge importance to the economies of Ireland and the UK, and a thriving SME sector will be an indispensable ingredient for economic recovery. We are encouraged to hear about the many initiatives which have been put in place by both Governments to engage with the sector, promote its growth and ease access to finance.

1.2. If SMEs are to have confidence in provision made for them by the banking system, it is vital that accurate, consistent information about bank lending is available. The SME Finance Monitor survey in the UK, and the analysis of the Credit Review Office in Ireland, are both invaluable in this regard. We support the CRO's efforts to publicise its service more widely. It is also important that SMEs be encouraged to make formal applications for finance and have access to the support they need to do so. This support includes access to skilled and knowledgeable staff in bank branches.

1.3. In the present economic circumstances, it is likely there is some suppressed demand in the SME sector for bank credit. However, as the economies of our countries recover, demand will surely far outstrip supply, particularly as there will be no quick remedy for some of the identified current issues, such as a concentrated banking market. The UK's Breedon Review has highlighted an alarming prospective shortfall of bank lending over the next four years, a finding which has important repercussions for Ireland as well, given the importance of UK-based banks for the economy. Businesses will have to look beyond the banks, to non-traditional finance streams such as equity funding, angel finance or peer-to-peer investment. Both Governments also need to respond urgently, firmly and imaginatively to the implications of the Review.

1.4. This is new territory for most small businesses. They will need support to take advantage of non-bank finance options: expertise either in-house or readily available from trustworthy external sources, clear and timely information about what the options are and how to access them, and Government action if necessary to promote a diverse range of finance routes. We urge both Governments to prioritise these actions so that our small and medium sized enterprises can reduce their dependence on bank lending over the longer term.

Those are some of the recommendations of the committee. We hope that at some stage in the near future one of the committees will take the report on board and hold an in-house debate to allow a wider scope for Members of both Houses to contribute. The report should be used as a launch pad for the recovery of SMEs that are so important to our economic recovery.

Ciara Conway (Waterford, Labour)
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I echo the sentiments expressed by all Members and congratulate Deputy Joe McHugh, the clerks and all the team for organising what was a splendid and worthwhile event. The fact it was held in the Seanad Chamber was not just an historical moment which added significance to the event but also lent itself very well to real engagement with the issues. By virtue of the fact we are all parliamentarians and politicians, the surroundings of a Chamber enhanced the debate in a way that is not always possible in a hotel environment. That, in itself, added to the quality of the debate and interaction during the assembly.

I was struck in particular by some of the speakers from the food industry. Much has been said about the food sector and agribusiness. Ms Darina Allen spoke about how she believes this could be one of the key drivers in terms of tackling youth unemployment. That is something on which all of us must take action. We also heard from Greencore and other businesses. Greencore, which is involved in the food industry, said it could not get people to work in the food industry. It is incumbent on us to forge links between the food industry and the further education and third level sector to ensure we have graduates who will find it attractive to pursue a career in the area and be able to drive the industry. Currently, we have a thriving export market for raw materials but it is the combination of processing and innovation that adds value and will secure jobs in the future and create more sustainable employment. The Waterford Institution of Technology, WIT, has invested a significant amount of money - €35 million – in the food and tourism area. We must engage with industry to ensure we have graduates who will bring about innovation, add value and create employment, in particular in the south east where we currently have almost 20% unemployment. It would be a tangible result from the work of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly. That will be my mission in the coming weeks and months in the BIPA.

I commend the work of Lord Alf Dubs on flooding. He delivered a report to the plenary session. I welcome the fact the Minister of State, Deputy Brian Hayes, has read the report and will take it on board. We are aware of the devastation flooding caused to many families throughout the country in the past 12 to 18 months.

I thank the Whips for allowing this discussion to take place in the Dáil. It adds significance to what was a productive and historic meeting on the occasion of the 44th plenary session.

Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour)
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I will not repeat what other Members have said. However, I thank Deputy McHugh and Mr. Laurence Robertson, MP, for the way they go about their business and do such a good job chairing the assembly.

I wish to talk about the part I play in the assembly. I serve on the economic affairs committee - committee C - where most recently we compiled a report on the small and medium enterprise sector. I thank Deputies Jack Wall and Arthur Spring for their contributions. The report is detailed and very important. It lays down much of the foundation for addressing the challenges and opportunities facing small and medium sized businesses in the coming years. As Deputy Jack Wall observed, the SME sector is enduring great difficulties in the current economic climate. In particular, businesses are experiencing enormous problems in accessing finance. The report predicts that between now and the end of 2016, owing to "stricter requirements", the banks will not be in a position to supply the finance needed to support the growth potential in the small business sector. That will be a major challenge for Government in both of these islands. We will have to look beyond the banks to non-traditional financial sources to support the SME sector, which will be a challenge in itself. SMEs are of critical importance to our economy and that of the United Kingdom and a thriving small business sector is an indispensable ingredient for economic recovery. As such, I am encouraged by the initiatives that have been put in place to engage with the sector, to promote its growth and to ease the path to finance.

I take this opportunity to address a misleading and mischievous article in one of the national newspapers yesterday which sought to portray me as some sort of Marie Antoinette figure who, instead of saying "let them eat cake", was saying "let them eat caviar". Deputy Joe McHugh understood the point I was making, which was to point out the excellent job creation opportunities that exist in the artisan food production sector. I gave the example of a company in my constituency which is the first to produce caviar in Ireland. This seemed to me a very good news story, but the newspaper in question turned it on its head. I acknowledged when I made the point that I might well be pilloried for it and, sure enough, my computer is hopping from the abuse being heaped on me for seeking to put caviar on the menu in the Dáil restaurant. The newspaper article certainly left a bad taste in my mouth. With friends like these, who needs enemies?

John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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I add my voice to that of the Tánaiste in commending the hard work of the Co-Chairmen in organising such a substantial and timely programme for the plenary meeting of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly. The plenary theme of making business easier is one that is very close to my own heart and goes to the core of what we are seeking to achieve in developing the British-Irish relationship. The backbone of the Irish economy is made up of the 200,000 small and medium sized companies which between them employ 700,000 people. There is great potential there for trade between North and South and between this State and Britain. Likewise, making business easier is of equal concern for the small business sector in Britain. An important part of the development of the British-Irish relationship lies in facilitating the potential for inter-country trade and export-led growth for both countries.

I pay tribute to the work of the Co-Chairmen of the assembly, Deputy Joe McHugh and Mr. Laurence Robertson, MP, for their work. Likewise, I thank the civil servants in both jurisdictions for their vital support for the assembly's activities. While the assembly meets twice a year, the value added by the ongoing work of the committees between plenaries is immeasurable. In particular, I thank Deputy Jack Wall and his committee for bringing forward a very useful and timely report on the small and medium sized enterprise sector. Both Governments are focused on lifting our respective economies and restoring confidence and access to credit for business. Many speakers referred to the ongoing difficulties experienced by small business in accessing funding. The banks in this country are now sufficiently recapitalised to ensure viable small companies receive the necessary funding to allow them to grow. Given my portfolio, I have a keen interest in the work of Deputy Wall's committee. I will read its report with interest and consider its conclusions carefully.

Several Deputies stressed the importance of the British-Irish economic relationship for the prosperity and well-being of the people of both our islands. As noted in the joint statement by the Taoiseach and the British Prime Minister, Mr. Cameron, economic co-operation will be a cornerstone of our strategy of deepening relations in the years ahead. In that regard, I look forward to meeting the members of the British-Irish Chamber of Commerce which has recently commenced business. The suggestions raised in the course of the plenary meeting are extremely valuable and will play an important role in strengthening British-Irish co-operation into the future. In particular, I note the useful suggestion arising from the session with the business leaders that standing trade missions between Britain and Ireland should be organised on an annual basis. Enterprise Ireland has identified 1,800 companies to which it will offer support to avail of the potential to export into Northern Ireland, Britain and elsewhere in Europe. It is notable that the priority areas for action identified in the joint statement and in the plenary agenda very much mirror each other. The agrifood sector, in particular, is doing outstanding work, with exports of €9 billion last year. In this context, I welcome the initiative shown by the company to which Deputy Ann Phelan referred. It is vital that such businesses are supported. Trade missions to Britain are of great importance in exploiting the export potential that exists. It is clear that we are all on the same page as we strive to deepen the relationship between Britain and Ireland in the years ahead.

I note the motion passed by members of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly expressing concern at the proposed closure of the RTE studios in London, as referred to by several Members in the course of this debate. I am fully aware that this is a matter of regret for many in this House and for members of the Irish community in Britain. However, it is ultimately a matter for the authorities in RTE who, like all of us, are faced with a very challenging financial climate.

I thank Members for their contributions to this debate and commend those colleagues who participated in the plenary meeting. It is very important that the vital ongoing work of the assembly is brought to the attention of all Members and of the wider public. Unfortunately, it might well be the best kept secret in our democratic system. The live streaming of the debates and the use of social media are important steps forward in that regard. We must get out the good news of the co-operation that is taking place not only by way of the assembly but also via the cross-Border bodies and InterTradeIreland. There is immense opportunity for the SME sector in this collaboration. A debate such as this serves a very useful purpose and I hope we will again review the work of the assembly following the next plenary meeting in October. I compliment Deputy McHugh once more on his outstanding work. The staging of the plenary session in the Seanad Chamber added to the ambience of this worthwhile debate. My role as envoy for small business involves a significant engagement with InterTradeIreland and efforts to enhance cross-level co-operation, including by way of trade missions to Britain. In terms of the diversity of opportunity in artisans foods and so on, there is an immense opportunity for businesses to grow and develop. The assembly has a critical role in enhancing economic co-operation for the business people who are the backbone of this economy and on whom we depend for the creation of jobs. Britain's market of 60 million people offers immense opportunities in this regard and it is an area in which IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland are actively engaged. I compliment everybody who has participated in this debate.