Seanad debates

Tuesday, 29 November 2016

Address to Seanad Éireann by Ms Nicola Sturgeon

 

11:30 am

Photo of Denis O'DonovanDenis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
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Is mór an onóir dom a bheith in ann ar son gach comhalta de Sheanad Éireann céad míle fáilte go dtí an Seomra seo a chur roimh Chéad-Aire na hAlban, Ms Nicola Sturgeon, MSP. Ócáid stairiúil atá ann a dhéanfaidh níos láidre agus níos doimhne an ceangal atá ann idir ár dtíortha.

It is a great honour for me, on behalf of the Members of Seanad Éireann, to offer the traditional hundred thousand welcomes to the First Minister of Scotland, Ms Nicola Sturgeon, MSP. This is an historic occasion that will strengthen and deepen the links between our two countries. The roots of the relationship that Ireland and Scotland have grown together already run deep. The 20 miles of water that separate, or perhaps connect, us have facilitated strong interaction between us in many spheres - political, religious, economic, cultural and linguistic - throughout our recorded history. From the early Gaelic kingdom of Dál Riata to the influence of Colmcille at Iona in the sixth century and Edward Bruce in Ireland in the latter Middle Ages, through the contribution of the Scottish Enlightenment to political thought in 18th century Ireland and migration in both directions over the centuries, our countries have together established strong bonds that will always endure.

Relations between Ireland and Scotland at the political level remain as close as ever, with a regular exchange of high-level bilateral visits in recent years. The visits to Scotland by our President, Taoiseach and Ministers and the visits to Ireland by the First Minister and other Scottish Ministers serve to remind us of the extent of political and official co-operation in many areas of mutual interest. These interests are many and varied and include energy, education, urban housing, planning reform and international development. Co-operation also takes place on a multilateral basis within the framework of the British-Irish Council and, at parliamentary level, the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly.

The First Minister's visit to Ireland comes at a challenging time in the history of both countries. The result of the referendum in the UK on membership of the EU has placed before all of us in Britain and Ireland the need to examine in a fundamental way how we relate to one another and the EU in the years ahead. We in Ireland know that a majority of the people of Scotland voted to remain in the EU and we understand the position of the Government of Scotland regarding exploring options for a continued Scottish relationship with the EU following the withdrawal of the UK. We also know that Scotland's Government and the other devolved administrations are engaging constructively within the framework of the Joint Ministerial Committee and we hope that a negotiating position that reflects the interests of all constituent parts of the UK can emerge from that process. We wish the First Minister well in her efforts to secure the optimum outcome for the people of Scotland.

Ireland, as an EU member state, will be open to engaging constructively with the British Government once the negotiation process begins so that a withdrawal agreement that acknowledges the diverse range of interests within the UK can be achieved in a manner consistent with our national interests and the interests of the EU as a whole. Much of our focus is, naturally, on Northern Ireland, which gives rise to a unique set of challenges arising from the Border and the entitlement of the people born there to Irish and EU citizenship.

Before I conclude, I will extend a warm welcome to the ambassador of the UK, H.E. Mr. Robin Barnett, CMG, who is present in the Visitors Gallery.

I speak on behalf of all Senators when I pay tribute to the First Minister for the way in which she embodies so well the spirit of the modern, confident and outward-looking nation that she has the privilege to lead. I wish her, her Government and all of the people of Scotland every success in their endeavours as they look towards a challenging, but exciting, future.Be assured that you may always rely on the Irish people and the Members of Seanad Éireann to remain firm and supportive neighbours. It is my pleasure to invite the First Minister to address Seanad Éireann.

Ms Nicola Sturgeon:

I thank the Cathaoirleach for his very warm welcome. It is a great honour to be invited to address all of you today. As I understand I am the first serving Head of Government to address the Seanad, it is truly an historic day for all of us. I thank you warmly for giving me the opportunity to join you in these absolutely beautiful surroundings.

Last night I had the pleasure of visiting Trinity College Dublin where, for the first time in my life, I saw the Book of Kells, a moving reminder of how deeply and inextricably linked the peoples and cultures of Ireland and Scotland have always been. When Colmcille travelled from Ireland to Iona in 563, he helped to shape Scotland forever. More than 200 years later, when monks made the corresponding journey from Iona to Ireland, they bequeathed to this country in the Book of Kells one of the great masterpieces of European civilisation. Exchanges in both directions across the Irish Sea have continued ever since, creating a special and unbreakable bond between our two countries. As a student, a lawyer and, most recently, a Member of the Scottish Parliament in the city of Glasgow, I have seen evidence of this bond every day of my adult life and know that it has enhanced Glasgow and Scotland in many ways. One of Scotland's great Gaelic poets, Sorley MacLean, described it as the humanity that the ocean could not break and that 1,000 years had not severed. The strength of the bond is not defined only by the people who have moved between our two countries. Much of the modern history of Scotland and Ireland has been shaped by our experiences of emigration beyond these islands. As a result of this, for all the deep regret we undoubtedly feel about the historic causes of emigration from our shores, both countries can today take great pride in what Scottish and Irish people have achieved overseas. As countries, we are unusually blessed with ambassadors, supporters and advocates in every corner of the globe. When the Irish rugby team beat New Zealand three weeks ago, an event I thought it politic to mention, not least because it gives hope to all of us, they had the good fortune of being able to play at home in the great city of Chicago.

There are two points, in particular, I want to make about our shared history and experiences. As we know, Europe is facing its greatest refugee crisis since the end of the Second World War. Scotland and Ireland know that at other times and in very different circumstances the peoples of our nations were also driven by the instinct for self-preservation and the desire for a better life to seek a future far away from the lands of their birth. This, perhaps, helps to explain why Scotland and Ireland have responded with such an open heart to the current crisis. Today Scotland is home to almost one third of the Syrian refugees who have been resettled in the United Kingdom. I know that Ireland, too, is playing its full part. Both countries are making the case for a co-ordinated European response. Given our own national experiences, were Scotland and Ireland to turn away from this crisis, it would be not only a failure of compassion but, perhaps, also a denial of our identities. In helping people who so desperately need our help today we are, in some sense, repaying the obligations of our past. The second point I want to make is perhaps a more straightforward one. Although we share, as countries, more than 1,000 years of history I hope and believe that relations between Scotland and Ireland now are stronger, warmer and more harmonious than they have ever been in the past. I have been immensely touched by the hospitality I have been shown since I arrived here in Dublin yesterday. I hope that the President, who I had the honour of spending some time with yesterday, felt the same warmth of welcome when he did us the honour of visiting Scotland in June.

In terms of political co-operation, Ireland has recently increased its diplomatic representation in Scotland. This year Scotland has established a new Government office in Dublin. Ireland, of course, is one of Scotland's biggest export markets. This morning I discussed how we can further strengthen and deepen those links with the business community.

As well as healthy business relationships, we also share and enjoy strong cultural ties. Indeed, the Abbey Theatre is now directed by two people who were previously based in Glasgow while a Dubliner runs the Edinburgh International Festival. These political, economic and cultural links draw great strength from and re-enforce the most important connection of all - the friendship and, indeed, kinship shared by millions of Scottish and Irish people across these islands and right around the world. I believe passionately that all of these ties will be strengthened even further to our mutual benefit in the years ahead.

Throughout the past four decades an important context for our co-operation has been our shared place in the European Union. Last year I gave a lecture at Sabhal Mór Ostaig, the Gaelic language college on the island of Skye. Former President Mary Robinson delivered the same lecture there 18 years ago. As I prepared my speech I was struck by her remarks because in her lecture she attributed the revival of traditional Irish culture in part to Ireland's membership of the European Union. She said: "The experience of interaction with other European States on a basis of equality helped our national self-confidence and heightened our awareness of the value of our distinctive contribution to European culture and civilisation."

Scotland's experiences in Europe have not been identical to Ireland's. We are not an independent member state, yet. Much of what the former President Robinson said holds very true for Scotland as well. The sense that small countries can be equals in a partnership of many is something that appeals to us about the European Union. The basic principle of EU membership that independent countries co-operate for the common good has generally seemed to us to be praiseworthy rather than problematic. Indeed, that perspective might help to explain why Scotland voted so convincingly to remain within the European Union. It is not just that we value the practical benefits that EU membership brings, although we do. It is also that for many people in Scotland, as in Ireland, being European has become a positive part of who we are and how we contribute to the world around us.

There is no doubt whatsoever that the UK-wide vote to leave the EU was deeply unwelcome. For Scotland, as for Ireland, it creates a challenge that is not of our making or choosing. Last week I had the pleasure of meeting the Taoiseach at the British-Irish Council in Cardiff and yesterday I met the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Deputy Charles Flanagan. It was clear from both discussions that Brexit is the greatest foreign policy challenge Ireland has faced since it joined the European Union. For Scotland too, we know that how we and, indeed, how the UK as a whole respond to the vote last June will define us for generations to come. I thought it might be helpful to set out some of the principles that are guiding the Scottish Government as we confront the consequences of the EU referendum and seek to navigate the best way forward.The first is straightforward. Scotland believes that the UK as a whole should now seek continued membership of the European Single Market and the European customs union. After all, 48% of voters in the UK chose to remain in the EU, so too did two of the four nations of the UK. Many people who campaigned to leave the European Union were clear in their view that doing so need not involve leaving the Single Market. I accept there is a mandate for the UK Government to take England and Wales out of the European Union, but I do not accept that there is a mandate to take any part of the UK out of the Single Market, especially when we consider the economic consequences of such a step.

Second, to guard against the very real possibility that the UK does decide to leave not just the EU but also the Single Market, we are exploring options that would respect the vote in Scotland and allow us to retain the benefits of the Single Market, not of course instead of free trade across the United Kingdom but in addition to it. The Scottish Government will publish some proposals before the end of this year setting out our thinking in further detail. These proposals will focus on options for Scotland within the United Kingdom. Of course there is also the option of Scotland considering again the question of becoming an independent country. That option remains firmly on the table. If the path that the UK chooses to take turns out to be deeply damaging to Scotland’s best interests, to our economic, social, cultural and international interests, then the people of Scotland must have the right to choose a different future.

We understand acutely that none of what lies ahead will be easy but then nothing about Brexit is going to be easy. We are living in unprecedented times and those unprecedented times require imagination, open minds and fresh thinking.

The third point I want to make about our approach relates specifically to Ireland. The Scottish Government knows and understands how vitally important it is to maintain an open border on the island of Ireland. Regardless of what agreements may be reached elsewhere on these islands, we will support unequivocally an open border here. We fully understand that for reasons of geography, history and the simple preservation of peace, Ireland's circumstances demand close and particular attention.

The final theme I wish to address today is a more general one. It is about cohesion, social justice and solidarity. When President Higgins spoke to the Scottish Parliament in June this year he talked about the consequences of unsustainable economic models which have fomented instability and widening inequalities. In my view, Brexit is one of those consequences. There are many different causes of the UK's vote to leave the European Union and we will no doubt be analysing and debating those causes for many years to come. For a lot of people they will have included entirely legitimate concerns about the EU - it is after all an imperfect organisation - but there also seems little doubt to me that the Brexit vote was also a product of inequality, of disillusionment with the established order and of a sense of alienation and disenfranchisement. After all, if people do not believe and feel that they are benefitting from the status quo, we cannot be surprised if they choose not to vote for the status quo. Although every single region in Scotland voted to remain in the EU, as First Minister of Scotland I cannot ignore or forget the fact that even in Scotland, 1 million of our fellow citizens voted to leave.

One consequence of the referendum for us is an even sharper focus on social justice. That crystallises in the challenge, indeed the choice, that the Brexit result poses for all of us who support free trade and who value the economic, social and cultural benefits of immigration. We can choose to turn inwards or we can choose to stand strong for the principles of an open economy and a progressive, liberal democracy.I choose the latter, but in doing so, I recognise that we must not just assert the benefits of these values. We must be able to demonstrate the benefits of these values. Ireland, I think, provides an interesting example, the decisions the country took after 1958 to open its economy to the world were transformational. Ireland is wealthier, more open and more diverse society as a result. The recent years have demonstrated that all open trading nations, including Ireland and certainly Scotland, need to ensure that growth is truly sustainable, that all parts of our society have a fair chance to contribute to it and that everyone can fairly share the benefits of it.

There should be no contradiction whatsoever between being an open, dynamic and competitive economy and a fair, inclusive and welcoming society. In fact what we are seeing around the world today demonstrates that the two must go together. A fair society is essential if we are to sustain support for an open economy. That is the reason that the Scottish economic strategy prioritises fairness together with economic competitiveness. It is also why Scotland like Ireland was an early supporter of the United Nations sustainable development goals. We believe the goals provide a framework for all countries to follow. They encourage us to exemplify fair and sustainable development at home while also promoting it overseas. As we do this, there are many areas where Scotland and Ireland can work with and learn from each other.

I had talks yesterday that touched on how our governments and our businesses are co-operating to promote renewable energy and tackle climate change. In Scotland, the ban on smoking in public places in terms of social policy was heavily influenced by Ireland's example. That policy is already improving the health of our people. I know that Ireland is considering Scotland's legislation on minimum unit pricing of alcohol and I wish Members well as they do so. Both our nations have also travelling a long way in recent years on issues such as equal marriage. It was legalised in Scotland at the end of 2014, while Ireland to its great credit became the first State to enshrine that right in its Constitution.

I know that President Higgins has called recently for small countries to work together on conflict resolution and sustainable development. I welcome warmly that call and I believe that Scotland and Ireland as individual nations, but also as partners, are well placed to play our part. In terms of overseas development co-operation, Scotland is committed to learning from the example of other small countries, including Ireland. Indeed in 2012, it was partly the influence of Mary Robinson that led Scotland to become the first country in the world to establish a climate justice fund, a fund that recognises and seeks to address the fact that the people affected most by climate change across our planet are those who have done the least to cause climate change. It is further evidence of Scotland's determination to show leadership on climate change, the biggest environmental, economic and moral issue currently facing our planet. It demonstrates our desire to lead by example at home and exert a positive influence overseas. In all of this and in so much more, Scotland and Ireland are living examples of the positive impact that small, open, outward looking countries can have on the world around us. The need to safeguard and enhance our reputations as open, outward looking countries is perhaps greater now than it has been for many decades. I hope very much that we can and will support each other as we seek to do so.

I began this speech today by referring to the Book of Kells. The first line of the very first page of the book is widely believed to have been from St. Jerome, setting out his intention to make a new work from the old. There is an echo of that sentiment in the quotation I wish to close with. In 2004 Ireland's Presidency of the European Union coincided with the accession of ten new member states. The occasion, as I am sure many will vividly remember was marked on May Day in the Phoenix Park. The ceremony included a poem by the great Seamus Heaney.The closing verses of that poem speak to optimism, the humanity and the basic kindness that all good societies need to flourish and succeed. They also encapsulate the tolerance, internationalism and open-mindedness that I believe must always define who we are, no matter the headwinds and the challenges we might currently face:

So on a day when newcomers appear

Let it be a homecoming and let us speak

The unstrange word, as it behoves us here,

Move lips, move minds and make new meanings flare

Like ancient beacons signalling, peak to peak,

From middle sea to north sea, shining clear

It is my hope that Scotland and Ireland, sharing as we do an open heart for newcomers and a faith in dialogue's power to move minds, will work even more closely together in the years ahead. I hope we will make new works, new meanings and new impacts from our ancient ties and our shared values. If we do so then we can and will ensure that our small nations send a big and very powerful signal to others across the world. We can help to deliver real and tangible benefits throughout these islands, across our continent and right around the world. Thank you so much for the honour of addressing you today.

Photo of Denis O'DonovanDenis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
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I thank the First Minister. It is a very historic and important day, so the leaders from each group have five minutes and we will then allow questions from as many Senators as possible, with the proviso that our guest of honour, Ms Nicola Sturgeon, will respond not later than 1 p.m. If Senators stick to their times, more people can come in. Fine Gael will be first with Senator James Reilly.

Photo of James ReillyJames Reilly (Fine Gael)
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I will share my time with Senators Mulherin and Feighan.

Photo of Denis O'DonovanDenis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
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It was agreed there would be no sharing of time. It was communicated to all leaders. It was declined as it was going to cause problems. I will allow the Senators in later to ask a question.

Photo of James ReillyJames Reilly (Fine Gael)
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Gabhaim mo leithscéal leis na Seanadóirí eile.I was not aware of that and I apologise. At least it means that my delivery will not be as rushed as it might otherwise have been. I welcome the First Minister on this historic occasion. It is not her first visit to this country as First Minister but it is certainly a very historic one, which we all welcome. As the First Minister has pointed to in her own speech, Scotland and Ireland share many common values and a long, long history. Reference was made to rugby and many of us follow the Celtic soccer club in a very committed way. We have a long history of immigration back and across from Scotland into Ireland and from Ireland into Scotland. As the First Minister has pointed out herself, we have been strengthening ties though our consulate and following very closely the Scottish position vis-à-visthe UK exit from the EU.

We very much share a common cause in ensuring that the UK stays as close to the EU as it possibly can, and in particular in respect of the Single Market. I note the First Minister's comments on the various outcomes that could possibly arise and how she reserves Scotland's position in that regard. It is very important to Ireland, and we are very much heartened by the fact, that Scotland voted to stay in the EU. We would be very supportive of ensuring that Scotland's voice is heard during the UK negotiations, as well as the voices of our fellow Celts north of the Border, who also voted to stay within the EU. We know, however, that in remaining in the Single Market, the UK will be faced with a serious challenge if it refuses to allow the free movement of people. In her delivery today Ms Sturgeon alluded to that issue, to our own shared history of emigration across the world, and to the generosity shown to our people when we were in need hundreds of years ago and in more recent years as people sought a better life outside our respective countries.It does behove us, as Ms Sturgeon pointed out, to be supportive of that movement of people and to do our fair share in regard to the current immigration crisis in Europe and north Africa.

I want to thank her in particular for her comments around the support for the Border and that as little as possible should change in that respect. Only harm can come from a hard Border for us in the Republic of Ireland and the North of Ireland.

The ongoing uncertainty and volatility of sterling has already had a major economic impact on this country and the people of Britain as well. However, Scotland has a particular role to play in this area, as Ms Sturgeon said, and I would also like to finish on a positive note. We are all Celts and have been very successful in the past, and good at turning adversity into advantage and at turning challenges into opportunities. I believe, in particular following the comments of Ms Sturgeon today, that we can and will do so again, notwithstanding the serious challenges ahead.

On behalf of Fine Gael, I again thank Ms Sturgeon for her historic visit, for taking the time to come here and for her very supportive comments on the UK staying as close as possible to the EU, in particular given the Border situation.

Photo of Catherine ArdaghCatherine Ardagh (Fianna Fail)
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I had intended to share time with Senator Clifford-Lee, so I will speak for no longer than three minutes.

I am very pleased to welcome Ms Sturgeon to the Seanad on behalf of Fianna Fáil. Her election as leader of the Scottish National Party and assuming the office of First Minister in November 2014 marks the first occasion a woman was elected to either of those posts. It was obviously a tremendously proud time for her, her family and her many supporters, in particular mná na hAlban, the women of Scotland.

I had the great pleasure of meeting Ms Sturgeon yesterday during a discussion in Leinster House with other female elected representatives organised by the Women for Election group. Her talks yesterday and today were inspiring and she is a role model for many women who have been elected and for those women who are unelected but are contemplating running for office.

Her commitment to equality and social justice is admirable and her courage in sticking to her beliefs when it comes to gender equality in her Cabinet, in particular, is unquestionable - she leaves us in the dust when it comes to equality in Cabinet. The day after her election as First Minister, she unveiled her first Cabinet with a 50-50 gender balance. Without a doubt, it was a very brave decision. By comparison, under 27% of our Cabinet is female.

Ireland has always had a great affinity with Scotland, most likely because of our shared and common history and the independence our countries sought and fought for. I admired Ms Sturgeon's determination for independence in the 2014 referendum and her continuing passion for independence. While it was not to be her day in 2014, Scotland's day will come and I know she will succeed in the future.

At a time of great uncertainty within Europe, I also know we share many common values and aspirations with the Scottish people. This uncertainty, which has stemmed from Brexit, is deeply worrying to Scotland and Ireland. The turbulence we are experiencing should lead to both countries forging even stronger links, and moving together and working to achieve our common goals. The strength Ms Sturgeon showed in the immediate aftermath of the Brexit referendum demonstrated to all that she is a formidable and able politician and one not to be reckoned with.

The people of Scotland clearly have confidence in her and know she will take the necessary measures to do what is in their best interests. I hope, following on from her visit to Dublin, she will return to Scotland more confident and assured of her relationship with Ireland, and knowing she has a strong ally across the water and that our co-operation, support and friendship will grow stronger in the future.

It is a tremendous personal pleasure to address Ms Sturgeon today and I wish her the very best of luck in the weeks and months ahead.

Photo of Michael McDowellMichael McDowell (Independent)
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Cuirim fáilte roimh an Priomh Mhinistear na hAlban.It is wonderful that those words are spoken in the first languages of both our countries. As an Independent Member, it gives me pleasure, on behalf of the Independent Members, and, I think, everybody here, to thank Ms Sturgeon for the thoughtful, challenging and understanding words she has spoken to us. When the Cathaoirleach was speaking about the channel between Northern Ireland and Scotland being 18 miles wide, I was thinking that it was, at one stage, the highway between the peoples on either side rather than a dividing geographical feature. My father and mother's names come from Argyll and Barra, which shows how connected that part of the world was in those days.

On my behalf and that of most Members here, if not on behalf of everyone, I wholly and unambiguously support Scotland's movement for national independence represented by Ms Sturgeon's party. I salute her, as First Minister, her predecessor, Mr. Alex Salmond MP and her party on their great achievement in bringing the issue centre and front in the affairs of these islands. Nationalism and the idea of an independent nation state are sometimes regarded as ideologically suspect or wrong by some people. Dealing with the point Ms Sturgeon made about fairness in the face of global finance and the inexorable workings of capitalism, the nation state is often the bulwark to which ordinary women and men can turn in order to defend their interests and articulate their need for protection from what would, otherwise, be overwhelming forces. The words Ms Sturgeon spoke about the partnership of independent states in the EU echo the feelings of most Irish people towards the EU. It is not a super state but a partnership of individual states. I hope the day comes when Scotland plays it part as a full member state of the EU, however challenging the prospect might seem at this stage.

As Ms Sturgeon said, Scotland and Ireland have so much at stake in the outworking of the Brexit process. We did not need the eagle-eyed telephoto lens of a journalist outside Downing Street yesterday to underline the fact that so much is unknown. The decision by a majority of the people of the UK to leave the EU is not merely a leap into the unknown, but a leap into the unknowable, given that the parameters of the negotiations are so unclear. The words Ms Sturgeon has spoken about the priority of maintaining the Single Market and the common customs area are priorities. Although it may not be obvious to many people who feel Brexit means Brexit, whatever that means, in Scotland and all parts of Ireland we believe it is an imperative that whatever happens between the UK and the EU, the relationship should be as close as possible. It is not in the interests of the peoples of any part of Europe or these islands that there should be a distant relationship.

The achievements of the Scottish National Party are huge. The fact that, during the last general election, the party was regarded by some people as a threat to be avoided and a galvanising argument for some people by way of reaction speaks strongly to the power and strength of the party's arguments and movement. In the years ahead, when there are so many uncertainties, I hope this historic occasion marks the beginning of a real, demonstrated cordiality between the Irish and Scottish people. They share many values.They do take pride in their independence and nationhood.

In the past, many people have queried the value of independence. For this country, independence has been a remarkably transforming phenomenon. I have no doubt but that the genius of the Scottish people, once released through full independence, will achieve the same for Scotland. From that point of view, it is a great honour for me to be allowed to express these views, through the Chair, to the First Minister. I welcome her warmly and hope she will return here and that we will engage with her more and more.

Photo of Rose Conway WalshRose Conway Walsh (Sinn Fein)
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Ba mhaith liom fáilte a chur roimh Chéad Aire na hAlban, Ms Nicola Sturgeon, go dtí an Seanad inniu. It is a great honour to welcome her to Ireland and this House on behalf of the Sinn Féin party. We welcome her as the leader of a nation with whom the Irish enjoy a long and enduring affinity as close neighbours and good friends. We share a strong Gaelic heritage, language and Celtic culture, of which we are both rightly proud.

The historic bond between the two nations has been catalogued. It was spoken about by the Cathaoirleach and the First Minister. Scotland gave us two iconic revolutionaries of the Easter Rising of 1916 in James Connolly and Margaret Skinnider, who in no small way, along with others, shaped Ireland over the past century in our struggle for national independence.

In 1937, the Kirkintilloch tragedy affected Achill Island in my community in County Mayo. Ten people from the island lost their lives in the tragedy. Scotland made a great contribution when people from the west of Ireland, including the community I came from, travelled to Scotland to participate in potato harvesting. Many families in the west were dependent on money coming from Scotland. We make every effort possible to keep up those ties on a community level. The First Minister would be very welcome to County Mayo, including Achill Island, to see this for herself.

Today, the First Minister's visit is about the future and how our nations will strengthen the bond that ties us politically, culturally and economically. The island of Ireland and Scotland have held membership status of the EEC and the EU since 1973. Throughout this 40-year period, we have become progressively integrated into the European Union and the Single Market. Sinn Féin has a long-standing policy of critical engagement with the EU. We support measures that are in Ireland's interest and oppose and campaign for progressive reform in respect of those that are bad for Ireland. There is absolutely no denying, however, that the unilateral decision being taken at this time by the British Government to withdraw from membership of the Union and to drag Scotland and the North of Ireland with it, without our consent, is disastrous and profoundly undemocratic. I welcome the First Minister's statement that she will support unequivocally the open Border.

The British Government is on a collision course with the EU in which our stability and economic progress are regarded as collateral damage. On 23 June, 62% of voters in Scotland and 56% in Northern Ireland democratically expressed their wish to remain within the European Union. For our part in Sinn Féin, we are strongly opposed to the North being forced out of the EU and believe that, as part of the Brexit negotiations, it is essential that we argue the case for designated special status for the North within the European Union. We believe it is in our interest to find common cause with regions, such as Scotland, which share our objective to remain and to work together and argue our case in forthcoming negotiations on Brexit.

The British Government is indicating that it intends to repeal the European Communities Act, leaving all EU legislation on the statute books so Westminster can pick it apart and decide what is to be retained, amended or repealed. This would have very serious consequences for the devolved regions since the legislative competence is underpinned by the Scotland Act and the Northern Ireland Act 1998, which means that no law can be incompatible with any of the conventions on rights or be incompatible with European Community law.Today Ireland, like Scotland, is a confident region in transition. The Good Friday Agreement, which received overwhelming endorsement in referenda held North and South, represents the institutional, constitutional and legal framework that defines the new relationships that now exist within and between Ireland and Britain.

The Agreement also enshrines the right of the Irish people alone to exercise their right to self-determination and to a united Ireland through consent by referendum North and South. Sinn Féin believes that Brexit and the insistence of the British Government to drag the North of Ireland out of the EU with it, severely undermines the institutional, constitutional and legal integrity and status of the Good Friday Agreement, an international treaty of which the Irish Government is a co-guarantor. The people of Ireland reasonably expect it to safeguard and defend all of its parts, as otherwise we risk unravelling the peace and progress of the past 20 years.

We are in uncharted territory since no member state has previously left the EU. However, given that there is already recognition at EU level of the special circumstances that pertain on the island of Ireland, it is entirely rational to argue for the North to be designated as special status within the EU. The political stability, economic prosperity, trade relationships and jobs of the entire island of Ireland must be protected and enhanced together. Ireland must also support Scotland's democratic right to retain its natural position within the EU through a differentiated relationship with the EU.

I commend the Scottish First Minister's leadership in standing up for Scotland's national interest in this regard.

Photo of Alice-Mary HigginsAlice-Mary Higgins (Independent)
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On behalf of the Civil Engagement group, I thank the Scottish First Minister for her visit to the House and for her inspiring speech. There is a long and interwoven history between Scotland and Ireland - in the migrations of our people, in the constant crossing of our seas and in the overlapping of our myths, stories, music and language. The vibrant exchange of ideas has always been part of this, from the journeys of Colmcille, through to the great debates of the Enlightenment when Scottish and Irish thinkers sent new ideas across Europe. Of course, at another revolutionary time, 100 years ago, Scottish migrants, James Connolly and Margaret Skinnedar brought their ideas and commitment to Ireland's cause, from their founding roles within the trade union movement to the part they both played in our Rising, which we commemorate this year. Certainly, Ireland must thank Scotland for the inspiration each new generation draws from Connolly's ideas, his internationalism and his ambition for humanity.

To quote from one of the great Scottish contemporary writers, Alasdair Gray, "A good life means fighting to be human under growing difficulties." Something similar might be said of the good society, for there is such a thing as society. Scotland has always shown, and continues to show, its willingness to fight for progressive social policies even in the face of the greatest challenges.

The Scottish First Minister demonstrated this in the clarity and leadership of her statement on the morning after the Brexit referendum, when she spoke to migrants living in Scotland to assure them of their welcome and the value placed on their contribution. That message of inclusion is ever more important at a time of increasingly divisive language of hate and racism across the world.

Scotland has also inspired through a deep and innovative public service commitment. Its investment in social housing, its access to education at all levels and its determination to tackle alcohol-related harm are deeply resonant in this Chamber. Measures such as those put forward by the Scottish Dementia Working Group, have been of keen interest to my colleague, Senator Kelleher, and others across the Oireachtas, who plan to visit Scotland to learn about those policies. I also note the practical solidarity which Scotland has offered to women from Northern Ireland in supporting their access to reproductive health services.

Underpinning all of this is Scotland's fundamental recognition that equality is the foundation on which social and economic progress must be grounded. As might be expected from a nation of great engineers, the Scottish have sought to put in place real structures and mechanisms to deliver that equality, including the statutory public duty, gender and equality budgeting, and annual equality statement.This is an area we in Ireland are now starting to explore and one I hope we will embrace still further. I would greatly appreciate it if the First Minister would comment on the importance of Scotland's annual equality statement and the message it sends. I ask this because, as the First Minister has observed, disaffection with the political system is felt in too many communities and there is, right across Europe, a need to rebuild connections between public and parliaments and between democracy and decision-making. I commend the young and vibrant Scottish Parliament at Holyrood which has stepped up with very active campaigns of engagement and enfranchisement. I know the First Minister is determined to keep faith with that enfranchisement by ensuring that the votes which so many Scottish citizens cast against Brexit are recognised and respected in any new process or roadmap which emerges.

There is a friendship and a solidarity which runs deep between our countries from the letter of Bruce who urged our peoples, free in ancient times, to come together more eagerly and joyfully in friendship. Alongside that friendship and solidarity is a creativity and ingenuity which Ireland and Scotland share. This can be a powerful force in business, science and the arts. There are opportunities there which I hope we will seize together, but we must also employ these and other skills together to face up to the great global challenges of our times, which the First Minister correctly described as unprecedented. These include the ticking clock of climate change, with its immense moral, social and environmental implications, and the work of peace. The First Minister began her own political career in the anti-nuclear movement and appreciates the fragility and importance of peace right across the world, including the importance of the Good Friday Agreement, an importance that must be underscored and understood by everyone at European level. At this crucial juncture for our nations and, indeed, Europe as a whole, it is important that Ireland and Scotland support each other's voices. We must make not only our concerns but our ideas heard on the importance of a social Europe grounded in peace, participation and inclusion by, as the First Minister put it so eloquently, equals in a partnership of many.

I thank the First Minister for the true leadership she has personally shown in stepping up to the important debates of our time on the national and international stages. I look forward to ever-deepening, more complex and constructive co-operation in the important years ahead.

Photo of Aodhán Ó RíordáinAodhán Ó Ríordáin (Labour)
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The First Minister is extremely welcome and I am delighted to address her on behalf of the Labour Party group in the Seanad. The international labour movement has perhaps had an uncomfortable relationship with national movements in the past. Indeed, our own founder, James Connolly, who was from Edinburgh, once said one could change the symbols of a state but that would never be enough. The First Minister's own national movement for self-determination contains much to admire, certainly in this part of the world where we have seen such sectarian tension, violence and bloodshed. The First Minister's movement for national self-determination has seen none of those things and, in fact, the referendum two years ago was inspiring for us in Ireland to witness. There was a fantastic engagement, in particular with young people, and the vote did not become in any way a sectarian headcount. Rather, it became something that has perhaps unified Scotland.

As somebody who is deeply worried about trends across Europe and the world, I find it inspiring to be in the First Minister's presence today . I see what is happening in the USA, Britain and across Europe, but when I hear the First Minister speak, I am inspired that things can perhaps get better. The very first issue she raised in the House today was the refugee crisis. I find that deeply moving. I find the fact that she is so in touch with her own history, our history and our responsibility to that history incredibly moving and inspiring. While nationalism across Europe now has a very bad name, the First Minister's nationalism and her sense of her nation's history is to be greatly commended.

I admire her stance on things like TTIP and marriage equality. I admire her determination not to allow her country, the UK and the rest of Europe break away from what has been a good and honourable movement since the mid-1940s.Let us remind ourselves that the European Union arose at a time of great division, war, pain, death and suffering. It appears that it is now turning in on itself on the basis, in respect of the Brexit campaign, of a racist lie on the part of those who pretend to care about public services but who really have a xenophobic heart. The Scottish First Minister is ranged against it, for which we commend her. At this time of great uncertainty and fear, a time when people are facing off against each other and leadership is needed, she is a shining light not only on these islands and across Europe but also across the world. As the inevitable reaches its conclusion and Scotland takes its place among the nations of the world and its self-determination becomes a reality, it should know that in these Houses and this country it will have the closest of allies, not just on the basis of national self-determination but also because of what we must give to the world, namely, our belief systems and values. At this historic juncture, what people in Ireland and Scotland believe in is more important than ever before. I congratulate the Scottish First Minister on her address and offer her our solidarity.

Photo of Denis O'DonovanDenis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
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I propose to allow two speakers from each group to speak and our guest of honour, the Scottish First Minister, Ms Nicola Sturgeon, MSP, to respond to them. The first speaker is Senator Michelle Mulherin. I will be very strict on time as we do not want speeches. The Senator should just ask questions.

Photo of Michelle MulherinMichelle Mulherin (Fine Gael)
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I welcome the Scottish First Minister. It is a great honour to have her in the Chamber, as has been mentioned across the way.

There are so many issues, Brexit being the burning one. The Scottish First Minister referred to climate change and immigration which is tied to Brexit. Although one does not always want to say it, as a woman, it is great to have the Scottish First Minister here. Just a few decades ago it was not possible for women to engage in public life in this country in the way they do now. It is, therefore, always a source of inspiration. We know that the same job of work needs to be done, regardless of whether someone is a man or a woman, but without women's participation, we would be missing out on 50% of the talent among the population. It is in that context that I thank the Scottish First Minister for being here.

I also welcome the debate she has initiated on the issue of nationalism. It is not insular. If we are to accommodate others in our country, we must draw circles of inclusiveness. It is about how we do this in a modern way and bring people in our own nation with us.

I have two questions.

Photo of Denis O'DonovanDenis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
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The Senator's time is up.

Photo of Denis O'DonovanDenis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
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I will not allow it because the Senator will prevent others from coming in. I was very clear that I would not allow it to happen.

Photo of Michelle MulherinMichelle Mulherin (Fine Gael)
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May I finish with one question?

Photo of Denis O'DonovanDenis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
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I must be fair and equal. The Senator used up one minute and 20 seconds and now wants to ask two questions.

Photo of Mark DalyMark Daly (Fianna Fail)
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I welcome the Scottish First Minister. One hundred years ago Ireland was continuing on its long road to independence following the 1916 Rising. I hope Scotland's journey to independence will not take 100 years. The nationalism espoused by Vladimir Putin, Marine Le Pen and Donald Trump is corrosive, but the civic nationalism espoused by the Scottish First Minister - fairness, progressive democracy and social justice - is positive. What can Ireland do to help Scotland to achieve its full potential and independence? How can we be of assistance to it?

Photo of Denis O'DonovanDenis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
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The Senator was very concise.

Photo of Marie Louise O'DonnellMarie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
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The Scottish First Minister is most welcome. It is even more glorious that the Scottish First Minister is a woman. I want to ask her a very practical question. When will she make the decision to ask the Scottish people to vote again on Scottish independence? We can be as independent as we like in our minds, but we must be practical about it because the British people voted to leave the European Union. Unfortunately, Scotland was part of that decision insofar as it voted against leaving the United Kingdom.When will the First Minister make the decision to ask the Scottish people to vote again for an independent Scotland, because that is the start? No better woman to do it and no better woman to lead it, but we would like to know when she feels might be the right time? What would stop her from, or alert her to, doing it?

Photo of Fintan WarfieldFintan Warfield (Sinn Fein)
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In the coming months the House will debate the Electoral (Amendment) (Voting at 16) Bill 2016. If passed, citizens who have reached the age of 16 will have the right to vote in local government and European Parliament elections. It is worth noting any attempt to widen the franchise for referenda, general or presidential elections will require a referendum of its own, as proposed by the Constitutional Convention in 2013. The Bill is ambitious, achievable and, above all, the right thing to do. Sinn Féin believes now more than ever is the right time to do it, to increasingly find ways of strengthening participation and democracy. Does the First Minister believe 16 and 17 year olds casting their vote and having their say has strengthened Scottish democracy and the future of Scotland?

Photo of Kevin HumphreysKevin Humphreys (Labour)
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The First Minister is very welcome. She mentioned the wish for Scotland to stay within the Single Market. We are very concerned about a hard Border between us and Northern Ireland and we will do everything we can to address that issue. Scotland staying in the Single Market will involve many great challenges. How is the First Minister looking at this?

One of the biggest issues facing not just Ireland or Scotland but the world is climate change. It is a very important subject here and is debated in the Chamber. Does the First Minister see how we can better co-operate with Scotland to make this not just an issue for debate but to make real change?

Photo of Lynn RuaneLynn Ruane (Independent)
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I thank the First Minister. I have a question on third level funding. There is a debate in the country on how we should fund our third level sector, which has been in crisis for a number of years. The debate on this has come heavily down on income contingent loans, to which I am completely opposed. I believe in a publicly funded education system. Will the First Minister make reference to how society has benefitted in Scotland from free third level education socially and economically and with regard to inclusion?

Photo of Frank FeighanFrank Feighan (Fine Gael)
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The First Minister is very welcome to the Seanad on this special and historic day. I thank her for opening a Scottish Government office in Dublin. It is a great move. Her representative, John Webster, is a great advocate for all that is good in Scotland and Ireland. The SNP went from six to 59 seats in the last election. Was this a vote for Scottish independence or for the party's progressive policies?

Photo of Lorraine Clifford LeeLorraine Clifford Lee (Fianna Fail)
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I thank the First Minister for her excellent and very informative address. It is fitting she is addressing the House in this special centenary year. The nationalism she espouses is very similar to the nationalism espoused by the men and women of 1916. It has nothing to do with the nationalism we have seen in recent years, which has been sullied by xenophobia and exclusion. My question is on the open border she outlined in her address which she fully supports. How does she see this practically operating?

Photo of Gerard CraughwellGerard Craughwell (Independent)
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The First Minister is welcome. It has been said that Prime Minister Theresa May will give Scotland anything it wants but independence in the Brexit negotiations. My concern is for the other jurisdiction on this island, which is the North. Some would like to think this will hasten Irish unification. I do not believe this is necessarily so, but my concern is that Scotland's goodies from Theresa May will be at the expense of Northern Ireland. Does the First Minister accept Ireland cannot accept a border along the Irish Sea between the UK mainland and this country?

Photo of Niall Ó DonnghaileNiall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein)
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Céad míle fáilte, a Chéad-Aire. If the Prime Minister, Ms Teresa May, is going to give her anything, could she ask for a Border poll, please? It is a referendum on our independence.

The First Minister and I are unique in this Chamber, in that we both voted in the recent Brexit referendum. Like her and her party colleagues, my colleagues in Sinn Féin and I campaigned for and voted for the North of Ireland to remain. I am inspired, as are many others, by the First Minister's passion, dedication and commitment to her nation, its people and the cause of retaining Scotland's place as a nation within the EU. I share that passion and dedication for seeing Ireland in her entirety retained within the EU.

Will the First Minister lay out some of the plans Scotland has in its demands for the Brexit negotiations?

Photo of Frances BlackFrances Black (Independent)
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I welcome the First Minister. She is an inspiration and I wish her all the best in fighting for independence for her country. I commend her on her fantastic work on minimum unit pricing. We are trying to introduce the same legislation. What have been the largest challenges for Scotland in that regard? How can Ireland support the First Minister, her country and the North and what action can we take in helping them to remain in the EU?

Photo of Denis O'DonovanDenis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
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As everyone has been obedient and succinct, I will allow one further speaker from each group.

Photo of Ray ButlerRay Butler (Fine Gael)
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I welcome the First Minister. I was delighted to hear her quoting from the Book of Kells. I am a born and bred Kells man and we have looked for one of the gospels to come back to the people of Kells. Maybe she might support that.

When Scotland voted in its independence referendum, it voted to stay. Since the Brexit vote, has the First Minister seen a change in that position? If there were another vote in the UK, I believe that the result would be different. Immigration was the largest issue.

Photo of Ned O'SullivanNed O'Sullivan (Fianna Fail)
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As the Cathaoirleach stated, this is an important and historic occasion for both of our nations and the House. The First Minister's predecessor, Edward the Bruce, came to Ireland almost exactly 700 years ago and was acclaimed as the last High King of Ireland by our Irish chieftains. There was a sorry outcome to that because, unfortunately, he lost his head - literally - approximately a year later. I do not anticipate that anything like that will happen to the First Minister. She will have a sense of the level of appreciation for her visit to Ireland and the warmth towards her, her beliefs and what she stands for is palpable.

Scotland and Ireland have native Gaelic languages, both of which are struggling to survive. I would welcome whatever thoughts the First Minister might have on how we might work best together to preserve these old languages.

Photo of Trevor Ó ClochartaighTrevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)
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Móran taing, a Chéad Aire, as ucht teann go hÉireann airson bruidhinn anns a’ Ghàidhlig agus a bhith an seo an-diugh le óraid ionsporáideach, mìorbhaileach, sgoinneil. The First Minister is welcome and I thank her for her inspirational speech. Following on from the previous theme, we have great links in terms of language and culture. The Gaelic of Scotland and the Gaelic of Ireland went two different paths, but they are the same language and culture that are celebrated by different traditions across the islands. How will the Gaelic language and culture be used as a mechanism to enforce and help reconciliation across the island of Ireland, accompanied by Scotland? What steps should we be taking to help support our diaspora in Scotland? Gabhaim mo mhíle buíochas leis an gCéad-Aire as teacht os comhair an tSeanaid. Is mór an onóir dúinne go bhfuil sí anseo agus go labhair sí linn inniu.

Photo of Colette KelleherColette Kelleher (Independent)
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I welcome the First Minister. Given the great amount of sharing and learning that we have done today, how can we build on that to co-operate and learn further from the significant leaps that Scotland has taken in terms of child care, dementia and social housing? How might we make use of the new office based in Dublin to copperfasten those links?

Photo of Denis O'DonovanDenis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
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I call on Ms Sturgeon to respond, following which, time permitting, I will allow another question from each group.

Ms Nicola Sturgeon:

I regret that I am unable to respond to Members in Gaelic as eloquently, or at all, as many of them have addressed me. On that point, in Scotland Gaelic medium education, in particular, is experiencing a resurgence. Earlier I mentioned the Sabhal Mór Ostaig Gaelic language college on Skye. It is playing a huge role in helping to move the Gaelic language in the right direction. It is one of many areas in which there is great scope for us to work together.

I thank Members for their warm welcome. I am incredibly touched by their warm and sincere expressions of friendship to Scotland. As I seek to navigate Scotland's way through the difficult months and years that no doubt lie ahead, I will draw great strength from the discussions I have had in Dublin and, in particular, the Seanad today. It is particularly nice to have been addressed by so many women. I had a very good session yesterday with the Women for Election group which I also met in Dublin last year. I am told that five of the six groups in the Seanad are led by women which, with no offence to any of the men present in the Chamber, I thoroughly endorse. Three of Scotland's political parties - my own, the Labour Party and the Conservative Party - are also led by women which is a trend in the right direction.

There was much commentary on the historic nature of this occasion. It is an historic occasion that will live with me for the rest of my life. It is also important to reflect on the fact that we are celebrating this historic occasion in an historic year for Ireland, being the centenary of the 1916 Rising. James Connolly has been mentioned. I note that Senator Aodhán Ó Ríordáin has just come back into the Chamber. He mentioned that one of James Connolly's great comments was that it was not enough and never would be enough simply to change the symbols of a state. As a Scottish nationalist, I could not agree more with that sentiment. The leader of the Independent group also commented that independence for Ireland was transformational for the country and Irish society. My belief in Scottish independence is in exactly the same vein: it is not an end in itself but a means to building a better country. I detected a great meeting of minds on the issue.

Among my many "Yes" badge relics of the 2014 independence campaign is a "Yes" badge which was gifted to me following the marriage referendum in Ireland, which came to mind when the Sinn Féin Senator asked me the question about 16 and 17 year olds voting. One of the truly wonderful things about the Scottish referendum was not the outcome but the engagement to which it had given expression, particularly among younger voters. I am a passionate advocate of 16 and 17 year olds being able to vote not only in national referenda but also in every election. If 16 year olds are permitted to marry and take on many of the responsibilities of adulthood, as they are in many countries, so, too, should they have the ability to shape the direction of their countries. Good luck with your efforts in that direction.

I agree with many of the comments I have heard today. Senator Alice Mary Higgins spoke about the contribution Scotland made and wanted to continue to make to the European Union. Much of the debate on the European Union is focused on the benefits we derive from EU membership. The benefits are many and practical, but they are also about our sense of ourselves and our place in the world. Part of what Scotland is seeking to protect is the contribution it is able to make.

On the many defining challenges with which not only the European Union but also the planet is grappling, I am proud to say that in a small way Scotland is showing leadership. For example, the climate change targets set by Scotland were the most ambitious of any country in the world at the time. We are now meeting more than half of the net electricity demand from renewable energy sources, which shows real leadership. Similarly, we are dealing with issues that have been raised around inequality, inclusion and the demands and huge benefits of an ageing population.In saying that I do not suggest Scotland does not have a lot to learn because we face significant challenges and in contributing we also draw on lessons from others. I have, for example, been asked questions about education. I am proud of the fact that we have free tuition fee access to university in Scotland. It is something I am determined to protect, but it is not enough in and of itself. We have to find other ways to allow people, regardless of background, to take advantage of a university education. As well as having something to teach others, we have lots to learn from other countries.

Alcohol is another area in which we are seeking to innovate and experiment with a policy that could be transformational. Unfortunately, we are being held up slightly in the courts on minimum pricing. As in many other areas of public policy, we have something to offer but also lots to learn in that regard. I look forward, on all of these issues and many more, to continuing to strengthen the links between us.

Senators may think I will dodge a question. Perhaps I might do so slightly, but I will address it. I want to end by talking about the inspiration Ireland provides for many people in Scotland. It is an inspiration for those of us who believe in Scottish independence. I thoroughly endorse the comments made by a number of Senators on positive civic nationalism. Ireland is a living and breathing example of positive nationalism, with independence being the key to transforming a country. For those of us who believe in Scottish independence, that is inspirational.

Senators have asked a question to which all of the Scottish journalists present want to hear the answer. They are poised with pens in hand in case I answer it. The question was asked when I was going to make a decision on whether there would be another referendum on Scottish independence. I am sorry to disappoint Senators, but I am not going to tell them the answer to that question today. I will outline briefly the process in which we are engaged. I have said very clearly many times that in 2014 Scotland did not vote to be part of a United Kingdom that was leaving the European Union and to step off a hard Brexit cliff edge, with lots of damage to our economy and society. If that is the prospect that faces us, I believe Scotland will have the right to decide whether it wants to do so or to instead choose a better future. I said the morning after the referendum, not as leader of the SNP but as First Minister of Scotland, that we must explore all options to try to protect Scotland's interests. That is the process we are going through.

Many practical issues arise from Brexit. We have heard questions about and comments on borders such as whether it will be possible for Scotland to remain in the Single Market if the rest of the United Kingdom leaves. There are real difficulties and challenges in that regard. In unprecedented times and uncharted territory - this has never been done before - it is important that we have an open mind, imagination and an ability and a willingness to innovate to find solutions on these issues. There are differences, but I do not want to conflate the issues in Ireland with those in Scotland. If we can find practical solutions in dealing with some of the challenges, we can inspire each other to find practical solutions to others. In that sense, Ireland is a great inspiration. Ireland is an inspiration for Scotland, regardless of views on independence for Scotland or a continuing union within the United Kingdom because it is an example of a small outward looking country that has made its mark on the world. I am always struck by independent Ireland when I visit as the leader of a devolved administration. Ireland is smaller than Scotland and does not have the vast natural resources Scotland has at its disposal, yet it is proudly independent and makes its own way in the world. That is inspiring for all of us.

I will end by answering a question many Senators have asked me: how can Ireland help Scotland? I have made the following comment directly to the Taoiseach and the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. I know that there are priorities for Ireland in the challenges that lie ahead. Ireland can support Scotland by doing what it has done today in understanding its position, holding out the hand of friendship and being there as its neighbour, friend, ally and family. I am deeply grateful for the invitation to attend. I am even more grateful for the enormous support Ireland has shown to me and Scotland, for which I thank it so much.

Photo of Denis O'DonovanDenis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
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Before I call on the Leader to respond I wish to add a few words. I grew up in a very remote part of west Cork called the Sheep's Head Peninsula and my lullaby as a child was the corncrake, which unfortunately vanished. Three or four years ago I visited Mull and Iona I was pleasantly surprised to hear the corncrake again on the hills of Iona. It brought back happy memories. My son was with me and he did not know that creature, the corncrake. I urge the First Minister to protect the corncrake in rural Scotland. On that note, I invite the Leader to respond on behalf of the Seanad.

Photo of Jerry ButtimerJerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
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Lá stairiúil ba ea an lá inniu. Lá iontach é atá lán d'ionadh. Ar mo shon féin agus ar son gach duine atá bailithe le chéile anseo i Seanad Éireann, gabhaim mo bhuíochas le Céad-Aire na hAlban as ucht an turas a dhéanamh go dtí an Seanad agus go mórmhór as ucht a hóráide cumhachtaí agus soiléire. Tá súil agam go ndéanfaimid machnamh ar an óráid sin.

Today is an historic day for all of us in Seanad Éireann and for the institutions of the Oireachtas, not just because it is the Head of Government that is visiting but because it is the first address to us by a Head of Government. The First Minister, Ms Sturgeon, did not disappoint. The words of Seamus Heaney come to mind, "If you have the words, there's always a chance that you'll find the way". That way is about joining together to ensure that Scotland and Ireland, collectively, play a powerful role within the European Union in a post-Brexit era, but also that we play a role together in working to attain and achieve human rights across the world.

In her address the First Minister underscored the importance of us working together, le chéile, to forge an alliance not just in a post-Brexit Europe, but in a world that is changing so that we can protect our shared interests. We have a shared history, a common streak of independence and a need and a desire to be heard and to be felt around the world. In a world that is changing the words of Yeats are appropriate, "All changed, changed utterly, a terrible beauty is born". Whether we are talking about the election of Trump in America, the rise of nationalism in parts of the world and in Europe or because of Brexit, what is required is an understanding and a willingness to engage and, as the First Minister said in her address, to listen. We very much support her views and are appreciate of her support for Ireland post-Brexit.

We are an island, North and South, of many different strands. That needs to be heard as well across the world. The First Minister referred to the open Border on our island, the Single Market in free trade, the pursuit of social justice, working together on climate change, and the humanitarian desire to see people, whether in Syria or many other parts of the world, accepted and looked after. That is why today in her address the First Minister did not just touch on Ireland, Scotland and Brexit but about our respective place in the world.

We are learning from Scotland about climate change and the marriage equality referendum. The First Minister has shown courage in her leadership and that is something to which we all, as political people, must aspire to achieve. Over the centuries leadership has involved making tough decisions. It involves listening and engaging. Today, the First Minister has done that with us. The political and social landscape of the world is changing. The body politic must listen to the people. The institutions of Europe must reflect upon the votes cast in the United Kingdom but also in the individual independent countries in elections. That is why today we must work to achieve the best for our people. We are the people's representatives. We are the voices of the people, those who vote for us and those who vote against us; those who voted for Brexit and those who voted against it.

As an island nation we can be proud of the leadership the First Minister has shown, and her willingness to change and to challenge, whether it is in the Parliament in Holyrood, in terms of her representation in Cabinet, her support for marriage equality or her support for greater communication between both parts of this island.The First Minister spoke about the importance of Colmcille and what he brought to Iona in 563 and referenced Scotland's great Gaelic poet MacLean, who spoke about our bond of humanity. Both our countries share that great sense of humanity, of doing right by our people. We have both suffered the scourge of emigration and are beginning to emerge from that period in our economic history. Ireland and Scotland together must play a strong and strident role in Europe. That requires us as parliamentarians to forge links with our neighbours in England, Wales and also Scotland. That is the reason I was very proud as a Member of the previous Oireachtas to visit the Scottish Parliament and see the tremendous work of that Parliament. It is important that we build on that. The friendship we speak about is reflected in the relationship of the First Minister with the Taoiseach, whom Ms Sturgeon met last week. The challenge now is not to look inward but to look outward. We as small nations can be seen as two island nations with a huge heart across the world.

I thank the First Minister for being here today. Ms Sturgeon has brought a message of hope and inspiration. Our people will look to us for leadership in the very difficult time that 2016 is, but if we reflect on our history, the 1916 Rising taught us one thing, there is strength in standing together. Míle buíochas.

Photo of Denis O'DonovanDenis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
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Is it agreed that we suspend the sitting until 2.30 p.m.? Agreed.

Sitting suspended at 1 p.m. and resumed at 2.30 p.m.