Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail)

It is very important in light of this motion and of the constitutional convention that an immediate and fast-track approach is taken to including the Irish diaspora in the presidential vote, not only because traditionally the many Irish to had to emigrate have had a continuing and abiding interest in Irish affairs. Given that we have seen a newer and younger generation of highly skilled and highly educated people with a deep interest in Ireland and who would wish to be here, it would be an important link if they were permitted to vote in the presidential election. As Senator Barrett said, the motion refers to Irish citizens. That could be a real difficulty. I suggest when this discussion is taken to another stage that all those resident on the island of Ireland should be entitled to vote. It should then be a matter for them voluntarily to decide whether they wish to register.