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

Before I call the Leader on the Order of Business, I welcome to the Distinguished Visitors' Gallery the Swedish ambassador, H.E. Lina van der Weyden. I wish her a happy Swedish national day, which takes place next month during the Seanad recess. Sweden's national day commemorates King Gustav Vasa in 1523 and the adoption of the constitution in 1809, which is widely seen to be the foundation of modern Sweden and its constitutional monarchy. There is a long history of friendship between Ireland and Sweden. This year marks 80 years since the establishment of Ireland's first official diplomatic presence in Stockholm. We remember with gratitude Ireland and Sweden working together on the formal diplomatic relations following the declaration of the Irish Republic in 1949. Over the years, our countries have championed human rights and the rule of law and democracy.

Sweden has everything from ABBA to IKEA. My nieces are particular fans of ABBA so they would be able to sing all the songs for the ambassador. Sweden has made a remarkable contribution not just to global culture and music but also to innovation and science. Less well-known of course, is the contribution by Irish and Swedish scholars to our folklore and heritage on storytelling. Swedish scholars have played a key role in the training of Irish folklorists to ensure that the best part of this tradition in Ireland has been protected and contributed hugely to the national folklore collection. That academic and folkloric contribution has made an indelible mark on our history and memory as Ireland transitioned because of our shared membership of the European Union. It is there where we work closely together on those issues that face the world. The ambassador and I had a long conversation about the issues of climate change and climate justice. Nearly 4,000 people from Sweden live in Ireland. My best friend, John Teehan, is married to a lady from Sweden. I have had the pleasure of being at a Swedish wedding, which I would recommend to anyone who gets the opportunity to go to one. We wish the ambassador and Swedish people all over the world a very happy national day. I thank her for being here to mark the occasion.

Anois, I call on the Leader to outline the Order of Business.