Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

One can sympathise with those who resent the kite flying of President Sarkozy and particularly what one could call an intrusion into the internal affairs of this country. The best comes out in the Irish character when we are provoked in that way. Often it forces cohesion between the different groupings, both in this House and elsewhere, and we see that happening in this instance. I would be disappointed if that were not the case.

One of the best ways of responding to this type of provocation and questioning of our independence and sovereignty is to show respect and admiration for our history and for our patriots, those who gave us the opportunities and the wherewithal which we have today to deliver on our own destiny. Previously I raised the question of the upcoming celebration and commemoration of 1916 in a short number of years. I raised it in particular in the context of the buildings in Moore Street. The will of the people on this issue would be without doubt unanimously that we must protect and develop that area.

The reason I raise it, and I hope the Leader may get the opportunity of responding on this, is that it has gone unnoticed that Dublin City Council has taken a positive move in this regard. It has been proactive through a resolution, which I believe was put forward by the Labour Party in recent weeks. I compliment the party on that because we needed that guidance and leadership from Dublin City Council. It will count for nought, however, if Parliament does not respond to it at this time. I am just a little concerned that the wheels are moving too fast. I ask the Leader to give Members time specifically to discuss that. If we do that, we will be sending a message to the world that our sovereignty is beyond reach and it is our intention in a few years time to demonstrate to the world the type of nation we are, the independence we have and the leadership we have provided, not just here but to the world in other cases as well. I ask the Leader for the opportunity to discuss specifically the national monument which is Moore Street in order that we can show support for Dublin City Council in that regard.