Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
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Before I ask the Leader of the House to outline the Order of Business, I welcome to the Distinguished Visitors Gallery the ambassador from Germany. He is most welcome here, in advance of Germany's national day. That day takes place in unprecedented times in Europe with the war in Ukraine and the European Union's response. We are also very grateful for Germany's support in the Brexit negotiations. The European Union and its partners are focusing our best efforts on the support of democracy and the rule of law, freedom and independence that has prevailed since the Berlin Wall came down all those years ago.

Some 32 years ago, Germany was reunited, on 3 October 1990. This happened just one year after the Berlin Wall fell, something that was unimaginable not only for the people of the world but for the people of Germany. The lifting of the Iron Curtain that separated East and West Germany also brought an end to the Cold War and the separation of one of Europe's greatest countries. Ireland is proud to have played its role in facilitating German reunification through that vital meeting in Dublin during Ireland's Presidency of the European Council, where support was given, some of it reluctant, across the European Union. Helmut Kohl thanked our Taoiseach at the time, saying "Germany will never forget what you have done for us".

The relationship between our countries goes much further back as well. St. Cillian left Ireland and arrived in Germany in the 7th century and established many monasteries there. Last year, we marked the 100th anniversary of the Irish State's fledgling diplomatic efforts in Germany and its appointment of Nancy Wyse Power to set up a office in Germany to promote Irish interests. We have shared long bilateral relations anchored around cultural, social, political and economic issues. Together in the European Union we will continue to work to strengthen those links for a Europe that is built on those ideals of democracy and the rule of law. Some 18,000 Irish people call Germany home, including the singer Johnny Logan, who is well known in Germany and here. There are 23 twinnings between German and Irish towns and we wish those twinnings to grow.

I wish the ambassador a very happy national day celebrating the reunification of his country. I thank him for being with us this morning.

Regina Doherty (Fine Gael)
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The ambassador is very welcome. The Cathaoirleach always tells incredibly interesting stories, particularly when he talks about national days. This morning is no less impressive than any other day. One of the 18,000 Irish people who call themselves residents of Germany is my son. It broke my heart when he left but he is living his best life in Berlin. My connection with Germany is far greater in the last number of years than it has ever been. I wish the ambassador a great day tomorrow and look forward to celebrating with him.