Paschal Donohoe (Fine Gael)

Yesterday, the House discussed the great sight that was many members of our Polish community voting in their national election. By casting their votes, they expressed their opinions on how they want their country to look, who should be in government and so on. The only Minister or Minister of State who has not been called before the House is the Minister of State with responsibility for integration policy. Will the Leader invite the Minister of State for a debate on matters in his portfolio? Just as one group expressed its opinion, we should debate what we want Ireland to look and feel like. Traditionally, Senators expressed their opinions on the meaning of citizenship and the social fabric. The House is well placed to return to that tradition due to the significant changes taking place in Ireland.

My constituency has the largest number of so-called newcomers as a percentage of the total population and they have made a positive contribution to the social, economic and religious lives of our community. We must all play our parts in creating a plan to harness that contribution to the long-term benefit of everyone. Will the Leader ask the Minister of State to explain to the House the work he is doing and the process he has set in place so that we may have an input?

I concur with Senators Bacik and Coffey on the cockle matter.