Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Today is World Refugee Day, which honours the strength and courage of refugees and encourages public awareness and support of refugees and people who have had to flee their homeland because of conflict and natural disaster. It is a good reason to have a World Refugee Day and stand in solidarity with such people. Today we received a report from Mr. Brian Dawson, the communications manager of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission. I had a look at it this morning and there were three matters that jumped off the page. There was mention of how the International Protection Act 2015 should be amended, as well as the definition of family members in a way that complies with international human rights obligations. The report suggests we should amend the 12-month limit on applications for family reunification and it suggests that we should clarify in law the rights and programmes for refugees with respect to reunification, as well as the rights of refugees who require Irish citizenship. The report challenges us as legislators to introduce legislation and I suggest Members might look at that at some point. It is important to acknowledge that today is World Refugee Day.

We received the summer economic statement for 2018 after it was published by the Minister for Finance, Deputy Donohoe. I welcome it. In the report it is striking that the Minister speaks of maintaining a broad tax base that generates sustainable revenue necessary to fund public services. It is a very reasonable and pragmatic approach. We cannot spend money that we simply do not have and we must have sustainable revenue. It is a really positive and strong message. The statement argues we should continue to be prudent in the management of our public finances, which is positive. It is a really positive document overall. I suggest, if it is appropriate, that we have a debate or presentation on this important statement.