Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

I wish to raise an issue that I know is of concern to many Members and to the wider community. I refer to the plight of our elderly emigrants, particularly in Britain, many of whom feel deserted and are living in deprived, insecure conditions. The Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Ó Cuív, raised this issue yesterday and went as far as to say that it was payback time for these emigrants.

It is estimated that over the years such emigrants invested up to £2 billion here in repatriated earnings, which many people consider provided the seed capital for the affluence we enjoy today. It would be wrong of us to ignore them and turn our backs at this stage. They are entitled to a dividend from the prosperity we currently enjoy. The Minister, Deputy Ó Cuív, should attend the House to discuss the matter with us.