Before proceeding with the Order of Business today, I would like to take this opportunity to welcome to Dáil Éireann a parliamentary delegation from the Federal Republic of Germany led by Mrs. Marion Caspers Merk, MP, Chairperson of the German-Irish Parliamentary Friendship Group, who are here with us this morning in the Distinguished Visitors' Gallery. On my own behalf and on behalf of the Members of Dáil Éireann I extend to you, Mrs. Caspers Merk, and to your delegation, a most sincere welcome to our country. I trust that your visit will further strengthen the ties of friendship and co-operation between our two Parliaments and countries.
