John Gilroy (Labour)

During the recent presidential election campaign several different views were put forward on what it means to be Irish and what vision we have for the Republic. I congratulate Senator Norris on the inclusive views he put forward at that time and also President Higgins. I have been paying attention to what the President has been saying since, and his appointment of Ms Sally Mulready to the Council of State in January is very much to be welcomed. She is the only member who lives outside the State. She is best known for her work among the Irish community in London. It was a wonderfully inclusive gesture by President Higgins.