Neale Richmond (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Just over two weeks ago, we had an excellent opportunity in this House to hear from First Minister Sturgeon on ongoing relations between Ireland and Scotland in light of Brexit. I was a little disappointed, however, that this was the first time ever that a Head of State or foreign leader addressed the Seanad, considering that we had in the same week visits from the Maltese Prime Minister and the President of Cyprus. I came to believe that the Seanad could be the ideal forum for foreign Heads of State when they visit this country, rather than simply having them meet the Taoiseach and relevant Ministers. It would be ideal to have a public forum with elected public representatives in which to discuss the aims of visitors' countries and of their countries' partnership with Ireland. Most important, they could outline the important challenges their countries will face in partnership with Ireland in the coming years, particularly because of Brexit. I call on the Leader and other relevant individuals to consider making the Seanad a central platform, as part of protocol, every time a Head of State or dignitary visits.