Before I call on the Minister to speak, I am sure Members will wish to join with me in welcoming the Right Honourable Sir Alan Duncan, MP, Minister of State for Europe and the Americas at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. On my behalf and on behalf of all my colleagues in Seanad Éireann, I extend a very warm welcome to him and good wishes for a very successful visit to Ireland.
Unfortunately, the Chamber is rather quiet on this occasion. On Friday, there are local and European elections and a referendum and many Members who would normally be here are knocking at doors, etc. Leaving that aside, he is most welcome. I hope he enjoys his visit.