Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)

It is coming up to St. Patrick's week and I thank Stella O'Leary, president of the Irish American Democrats, for her role in ensuring that March 2009 was proclaimed Irish American heritage month by President Obama. I hope the Cathaoirleach and the Taoiseach enjoy their visit to the White House next week. In that proclamation, President Obama outlined the huge contribution by Irish Americans to the unions, such as the famous Red Quill from Kilgarvan — Kilgarvan people are known for causing trouble all over the world. He brought New York to a standstill for nine days by organising a strike telling the trial judge to "drop dead in his black robes" when he was ordered to break the strike. The Caseys from Sneem were world famous rowers and wrestlers.

President Obama also outlined how Irish people left these shores in the Famine hungry but hopeful. In this time of recession, it is important we remain hopeful and are mindful of the great debt we owe the United States for its assistance in our peace process and in our successes. I hope the Cathaoirleach enjoys his trip to the White House.