Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 178: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the concept of the organisation of an international parade day for foreign national communities in order to increase an awareness of their culture and contribution to society here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3808/08]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I am not aware of any particular demand from migrant groups for the holding of an event such as that suggested by the Deputy.

A number of events, stressing the cultural heritage of various migrant groups are currently held both at a national and local level. Such events allow communities to learn about each other's backgrounds and cultures.

Integration, however, implies that new cultures and traditions become part of a unified society. For that reason, I believe that considerable advantage lies in inviting new communities to participate in local and national parades thus emphasising the unification aspect of integration.

The Minister of State, Conor Lenihan, T.D. who has responsibility for integration policy, shares my views on this matter.