Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I endorse the comments of my colleague, Senator Craughwell, on the Defence Forces. On many occasions in recent years, Senators have highlighted the fact that morale in the Garda Síochána is at an all-time low. We recently saw how low morale has become with more than 10,000 ordinary members of the Garda taking the decision individually to strike for better pay and conditions. We face a similar crisis in our Defence Forces. I am very interested in this matter. As part of our rolling debates on Brexit, I have asked that the Minister for Defence come to the House. As Senator Craughwell pointed out, the Taoiseach is the Minister for Defence. The situation is so serious that it warrants the Taoiseach's presence here to debate the future of our Defence Forces. The latter are in crisis.How long will we wait until that crisis turns into a serious reality? I ask that this debate take place as soon as possible and that An Taoiseach, not the Minister of State, come before this House.

I also wish to comment very briefly on Senator Warfield's comments about An Taoiseach's tweeting. While I disassociate myself totally with the comments and actions of Vice President-elect Pence, I very much welcome the fact that An Taoiseach is in contact with both him and President-elect Trump. It is in the interest of this country to maintain good relations with the people of the United States of America, a country in which more than 50 million people claim Irish ancestry. The United States has been very important for us in the context not only of the peace process, but also of many other matters through the decades. I would like to see that good relationship continue but I disassociate myself totally with the comments Senator Warfield has attributed to the incoming US Vice President, Mr. Pence, and would not condone any of them.