Michael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I support the call made by Senator O'Donovan for a debate with the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade on the persecution of Christians throughout the world. It has come to the fore very much in recent times and I would like to see such a debate in early course. I also seek a debate with the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade following his return from the United States where he met the Vice President, Joe Biden, and the Secretary of State, John Kerry.

The Minister's visit focused on Northern Ireland, immigration reform and Ireland-US economic matters. His meetings were timely, as the British and Irish Governments will become involved in talks in Northern Ireland during the coming weeks. We would like to hear from him what involvement the US Administration is likely to have in those peace talks. In recent years, many Members of this House have spoken at length about immigration reform and the need for us to see something done in respect of the undocumented Irish, who cannot return to their home country for special occasions like weddings and funerals. There have been many false dawns, so I would like to hear from the Minister about what progress is likely to be made during the coming months. I also welcome today's swearing in of the new ambassador to Ireland, Mr. Kevin O'Malley.

I would like to hear from the Minister about how his discussions with the US Chamber of Commerce went regarding support for Irish companies setting up in the US and the prospect of inward investment into Ireland.