Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We have all expressed the view that this must be avoided. I do not wish to be sectarian but the DUP does not speak for all the people in the North of our country. There are others with a different viewpoint, in unionism and nationalism, and they must be heard as well. It is important from the business, economic, cultural and community points of view that our country stand as one on not returning to a hard border. Today's document, which outlines how the North can remain within the customs union and the Single Market, is an important one that we should all read. Equally, Michel Barnier, in his response to the publication, speaks about the backstop of option C being the only guarantee. It is important that the commitments made in December are upheld. We will have that debate in the coming weeks.

Senators Humphreys, Devine, O'Donnell and Horkan raised the issue of the weather. I thank all Members of the House, particularly the leaders, the staff and the Cathaoirleach for their co-operation in allowing us to adjourn early today. That was facilitated by the status red weather alert but also by the Commissioner's inability to travel tomorrow. I make no apology to the Members and staff of the House. My obligation is to have them travel home safely. That is why we are adjourning. We will reconvene next Tuesday and will have the debates on different issues raised today, such as fuel poverty and the fuel allowance.

I ask the indulgence of the House to end the Order of Business now. It is Senator Ó Clochartaigh's day and rather than giving a long discourse I wish him well. I will respond in due course to the other contributions. I wish Senator Ó Clochartaigh every success in his new chapter. He is a very decent, honourable man.