Pat Moylan (Fianna Fail)

I compliment Senator Hayes and Senator Mooney on their contributions to the debate. In the past, on the Order of Business, Members have clamoured for statements on Irish emigrants, yet when they get the opportunity for such a debate they are not present. Unfortunately, the small number of Senators present is proof of that fact.

We can all remember that some of the school friends with whom we studied or played hurling, had no choice but to emigrate. In many cases, entire families moved to London, Birmingham, Manchester or American cities. We should recognise the contribution they made by repatriating part of their earnings to their relatives here.