Rónán Mullen (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am very glad that my colleague Senator David Norris raised the issue of the Department of Justice and Equality vetoing the possibility of a visit by President Higgins to an asylum centre in Athlone. It is understand the President's office was positive about the request and invitation. I think we should hear from the Minister for Justice and Equality on this matter. In the context of preparing for the recent Private Members' motion on the direct provision issue I visited several centres, and I know the Department of Justice and Equality facilitated my visit on one occasion. I cannot understand the reason the Department and the agencies involved should not do everything necessary to facilitate a Presidential visit. It would be highly appropriate for the President to visit. It is such a part of the symbolic office of the Presidency. By being present with people and groups, particularly those considered to be marginalised, the President is sending out a powerful message. By vetoing the visit, the Department appears to have interfered with the President in doing what a president ought to do. We should hear from the Government on this issue. I would like to think President Higgins would visit such a centre very soon and that there would be ample media coverage of such a visit.