Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Therefore, if Britain were to leave, those residents here would lose their right to vote in the European elections. I have put forward this argument. I somewhat regret that Ireland is not fighting to try to make a special case. As we said earlier, we know the case was made in respect of "close ties" by the UK in regard to the Commonwealth. I think the close ties we have with the UK are very clear, and all of us in this House and all Ministers have spoken about those close ties. It is regrettable we do not put substance to that by seeking to maintain those ties. I recognise that we want to ensure a wider consideration of non-EU citizens, which is why I will be pressing an amendment at a later Stage on the wider issue of non-EU citizens who may be long-term residents in the State and their voice. It is very sad to see anybody losing a right to vote in this day and age, when we know we need to expand and deepen democracy at every opportunity. Again, I regret we are not able to agree on this point but I thank the Minister of State for his engagement.