Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Go raibh maith agaibh a Chathaoirligh agus a Cheannaire. Ba mhaith liom droch-ábhar a lua ar dtús ar an drochuair. A number of weeks ago at the initiation of the Cathaoirleach, the president of Cumann Lúthchleas Gael addressed the Seanad on the really positive work the GAA does not just the length and breadth of Ireland but around the world. Senator Black mentioned the fantastic pioneering work of East Belfast GAA in County Down. Unfortunately, East Belfast GAA has been subjected to quite negative and hostile remarks over the past number of weeks. Yesterday, the training pitches where the teams, including the children's teams, go to play had to be searched for a suspect device. We are seeing some really nasty things said about that club despite the fantastic, inclusive and positive work it does in the east of the city to bring the GAA and Gaelic sports to all age groups and people from all backgrounds, ethnicities and communities. I am sure it is the united stance of this House that we would send our solidarity to the members of East Belfast GAA and condemn outright anyone who would attack that club in any way for simply wanting to enjoy its sport, have fun and bring people together. If it is agreeable to the House, perhaps the Cathaoirleach would write to the secretary of East Belfast GAA expressing the solidarity and support of this House. I wanted to take that opportunity this morning.

The Cathaoirleach will not be surprised because I know he has had his issues with passports in the past but the latest problem we are encountering has come to light through the work of newly elected Belfast city councillor Caoimhín McCann, who is the youngest councillor in Belfast City Hall. He has initiated a petition online calling on the Passport Office to accept Northern electoral ID cards as acceptable photo ID. These are Government-issued IDs. It was what I used to vote last Thursday. I have also travelled within the common travel area using this card. I have gone to the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly events in Great Britain with it. Unfortunately, the Passport Office is not accepting it for new applicants for a passport. The office will accept British passports and driving licences but this really needs to be added to the list. I might raise it as a Commencement matter next week but in the spirit of sharing the island, the Cathaoirleach might raise it with his party leader and the Minister for Foreign Affairs. To me, it seems as though it would be easily resolved and would make sense. Fair play to Caoimhín McCann; it is a good initiative that will assist more people to be able to avail of their right to an Irish passport.