U.S Congressman Richard Neal to address Seanad Éireann to mark its centenary

He also serves as co-chair of the Congressional Friends of Ireland caucus - a bipartisan group set up to advance the cause of peace in Northern Ireland.

Congressman Neal will address the Upper House and the Leader of each group in Seanad Éireann will have an opportunity to respond.

It follows an invitation earlier this year by the Cathaoirleach of the Seanad and Vice Chair of the Parliamentary Friendship Groups in Leinster House, Senator Mark Daly.

Mr Neal is currently leading a bipartisan delegation of representatives from the US Congress who are holding meetings in Dublin, Belfast, London and Brussels.

His address to Seanad Éireann on Tuesday is part of a series of events to mark the year-long programme of events marking the centenary of Seanad Éireann.

Senator Daly said: “We are honoured to welcome Congressman Richard Neal to address Seanad Éireann. As Chair of the Ways and Means Committee which has significant power over trade deals, he has been an influential friend and ally to Ireland and has been vocal in his support for the Good Friday Agreement and on measures to promote peace and stability on the island. The relationship with the United States is vital to Ireland and to the Peace Process.”

“Congressman Neal is the embodiment of the strong links between Ireland and the United States of American. He has always been a strong supporter for Ireland during the darkest days of the Troubles and during the Good Friday Peace Agreement and during these challenging times caused by the Brexit Referendum Results. Chairman Neal's involvement in ensuring the Good Friday Agreement is protected has been extraordinary, it has been vital. There is no greater friend Ireland could have hoped for at this time and especially in his position as chair of the Ways and Means Committee, ensuring the peace process is at the forefront of any talks of a future US/UK Trade agreement.”

“The appointment of a US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland, the Protocol, the recent Stormont election, a potential Border Poll, legacy issues and the Good Friday Agreement are among the topics we expect to discuss with Mr Neal,” said Senator Daly.

ENDS