Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I could see it in some of their eyes. Some of them have not been home in 25 years for different reasons. There are people looking after them in some instances and we have to ensure that the welfare agencies in London and throughout greater Britain look after them. We need to look after them because they are with us. They are still Irish citizens. I certainly will ensure that we continue to support the 100 groups that we funded last year in Britain.

The Senator also mentioned we are not defined by geography or time, and I agree. An Irish citizen is an Irish citizen and one does not become more or less Irish just by getting on a boat or a plane. The Irish nation cherishes affinity. The Senator mentioned the Constitution. Tá dualgas orainn uilig. The Senator also mentioned aspects of the Genealogy and Heraldry Bill 2006. I will get my officials to dig it out and I will certainly look at that.

Then the last Senator, Senator Rose-----