Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

I have re-read the report on the Irish in Britain, which makes a good contribution to fully understanding the plight of many Irishmen and Irishwomen who live abroad. From the information provided it is clear that a good response has been made by the Government and many agencies with finance and back-up services to resolve some of the difficulties that exist. The report is largely concerned with statistical information.

Many people have raised questions about this matter in recent years. Most Senators know of the many human stories and those people, many of whom are of advanced years, need to be attended to. They made their own contribution to Ireland having worked abroad and sent money back here when it was badly needed.

I hope that the appropriate Minister will come to the House to discuss the report with us again and give us an update on progress. Many of these people are in their twilight years and need assistance urgently. While many of the agencies and organisations, voluntary and otherwise, are reaching out and endeavouring to help, in many areas we need a more proactive approach and we should have a debate here to pool our information and assess the progress made.