Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Before I call the Leader to outline the proposed Order of Business, I welcome the Speaker of the Maltese Parliament, Dr. Farrugia. It is a great day for Malta, which celebrates its independence on this date since achieving independence in 1964. As two island nations on the periphery of Europe, we are on the crossroads to two different continents but we share a common history of a long struggle for independence, in addition to a rich maritime heritage. We are also neutral nations and members of the UN Security Council. Our diplomatic relations were established in 1990. It is a long-standing relationship built on our common membership of the European Union. Our friendship grows stronger and we thank Malta for its support for Ireland during the very difficult and ongoing Brexit negotiations.

We have sporting links as well because, in the city of Floriana, there is a football club known affectionately as Tal-Irish, the Irish, due to the fact the Royal Dublin Fusiliers were based there in the 20th century. They had a green and white kit that they donated to the local team, which still wears those colours to this day.

The excellent relations between Ireland and Malta were further strengthened by the visit of our President to Malta in May. Today's visiting delegation further strengthens the links between Ireland and Malta.We welcome the Speaker and the Ambassador here on Malta's independence day. We wish Maltese people in Ireland and all over the world a very happy independence day. Viva Malta indipendenti. I thank the Speaker for being with us today.