Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
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I welcome the ambassador from Austria here today. The ambassador is most welcome to Seanad Éireann. In October Austria celebrates its national day and we celebrate with them in the many and enduring links between Ireland and Austria.

Obviously, as two militarily neutral countries in the European Union, we share a great interest in the work of the United Nations and work on peace and peacekeeping. Our connections go way back to the Wild Geese where many of those who left Ireland served in the continental army and in the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Their long service is long remembered. One Irishman, Maximilian O'Donnell, who had been exiled from Ireland, became a prime minister under the Emperor Franz Josef and he saved the life of the emperor many years ago. Of course, our links now relate to peace and security in the European Union. As Ireland assumes the Presidency of the European Union in the latter half of 2026, we look forward to working with the ambassador and the people of Austria in making sure the people of the EU and the world enjoy peace and prosperity together. I thank the ambassador for coming in here in advance of Austria's national day. Go raibh míle maith agat.