Frank Feighan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We are deeply frustrated at events in Westminster. Today, we have got great solidarity from Emmanuel Macron, who said he will never abandon Ireland or the Irish people, no matter what happens. This sends out a powerful signal to Brexiteers who think Europe will be divided. The Taoiseach rightly said that we are open to a credible plan from Westminster that has a clear purpose. The next few days will tell a story of where we are going but it is very concerning that the UK Parliament still has not taken control of an extremely difficult situation, which has caused huge confusion and unnecessary work and commitment over the last two and a half years. I hope that comes to fruition.

Last year, we had a very eventful moment in Clones when the leader of the DUP, Arlene Foster, attended the Ulster final between Fermanagh and Donegal. I felt that was a momentous event. It was well appreciated by the crowd and sent out a signal that times are changing. There is a soccer club in Fermanagh, Ballinamallard United, which plays in the Irish league and is located only a few miles north of Enniskillen. The club has got to its first cup final in 138 years, which will be played in Windsor Park against Crusaders. This could be another wonderful moment for people from a nationalist point of view, in that we could attend and show our solidarity. I live in Sligo and know Ballinamallard United is a very close friend of Sligo Rovers. Indeed, Tom Elliot, who was the leader of the Ulster Unionist Party and was an Ulster Unionist MP, is chairman of Ballinamallard United. We should send out our good regards to our near neighbours for that cup final, which takes place in early May. There could be a huge opportunity for people to show their solidarity with a small club in Northern Ireland.