Michelle Mulherin (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Scottish First Minister. It is a great honour to have her in the Chamber, as has been mentioned across the way.

There are so many issues, Brexit being the burning one. The Scottish First Minister referred to climate change and immigration which is tied to Brexit. Although one does not always want to say it, as a woman, it is great to have the Scottish First Minister here. Just a few decades ago it was not possible for women to engage in public life in this country in the way they do now. It is, therefore, always a source of inspiration. We know that the same job of work needs to be done, regardless of whether someone is a man or a woman, but without women's participation, we would be missing out on 50% of the talent among the population. It is in that context that I thank the Scottish First Minister for being here.

I also welcome the debate she has initiated on the issue of nationalism. It is not insular. If we are to accommodate others in our country, we must draw circles of inclusiveness. It is about how we do this in a modern way and bring people in our own nation with us.

I have two questions.