Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)

Before I call on the Leader to outline the Order of Business, I welcome the Belgian ambassador to Ireland, Karen Van Vlierberge, who is leaving us shortly. She is going back to Europe. She tells me that she is bringing an Irish dog and an Irish cat with her, so she will be taking a small part of Ireland. She is joined by Deputy Catherine Callaghan, who has been appointed as the convener of the Ireland-Belgium Parliamentary Friendship Group. We greatly appreciate the support of the Government and people of Belgium during the Brexit process. It feels like a lifetime ago now, but it was all very important at the time, and it continues to remain important as we deal with the ongoing fallout of Brexit. Ireland and Belgium were the two countries most impacted by Britain's decision to leave the European Union. We have put in place the structures to reinvigorate our opportunities as a result of it.

Our historical connections go way back through the annals of history to Irish missionaries going to Belgium and Irishmen leading battles in the Belgian Army. Many Irish diplomats have made Brussels their home and enjoy working with the ambassador's colleagues in the Belgian Government. We wish the ambassador every success as she leaves Ireland after her four long years of service. We mark her national day and celebrate it in advance. I thank her for being here today.