Neale Richmond (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The statue has been returned to its sombre self. I appreciate the comments made by the seven Senators who raised the issue.

I take into account what Senator Ó Donnghaile said about the great Harry Leslie Smith, of whom I am a massive fan. The latter's politics are not necessarily my own but I admire his spirit and ability to fight, particularly for the rights of refugees. I fully agree with Senator Mac Lochlainn's comments on direct provision centres. The approach by our Government and previous Governments to dealing with refugees in this country is a disgrace.