Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am speaking on the section. These are all issues that could be addressed in this section. I have not spoken about a single issue which does not relate to the categorisation of the designated institutions of higher education. To be very clear, I am looking here at line 16. While my proposal - my specific amendment - may not be in order, my opinions regarding the definitions and their inclusions or exclusions are entirely valid in the context of the section on which we are speaking.

I note that an opportunity is being missed to promote inclusion for all of the institutions of higher education across the entire island of Ireland in the definition of "a designated institution". It would send a signal on one of the principles in the Manning report. I refer to the principle of seeking to ensure citizens within Northern Ireland, Irish citizens within Northern Ireland in particular, would have the opportunity to engage electorally. It is something which has been given lip service by a number of parties within this Oireachtas. Here was an opportunity to perhaps put it at least partially into effect. I hope the Minister will address these issues in his response and reflect them in amendments that may come through in the Dáil. Indeed, he could have done so on Report Stage in the Seanad if we were having such a debate here.