I congratulate Israel Olatunde from Dundalk on being the fastest man in Ireland and for smashing the 60 m indoor record. I will try to be as fast in asking my question.

On the Irish protocol, we have had unhelpful commentary from backbench Tory MPs. One of them is called Boris Johnson or something like that. I seem to remember him from a time gone by. What dialogue is the Government involved in at European level and with the British Government? We all want to see a deal and we all want to see streamlining. However, we cannot have anything that involves even the smell of a hard border. We need to get to a point where the DUP can come on board and put the Executive back in play, because that is absolutely necessary.

I thank the Deputy very much. I join him in congratulating Israel Olatunde on a fabulous performance the other day. I watched it on the news. I am very impressed by what he has achieved and with his speed. I also congratulate the Deputy on segueing from that to the protocol. I did not know where the Deputy was going, but fair play.

On the protocol, I spoke with President von der Leyen on Saturday and the Tánaiste met with Maroš Šefčovič in Brussels yesterday. There is contact every couple of days between us and the European Commission, which is negotiating on our behalf. Obviously, we are in touch with the British authorities as well. The situation is that a great deal of progress has been made but a deal has not yet been done and signed off. Prime Minister Sunak wants some time to consult with the Northern Ireland parties and with his own party. We should give him the time and space to do that. We should all avoid any commentary in public which might prove to be counterproductive.

That concludes the Order of Business.

I was to speak in place of Deputy Nolan.

Unfortunately, the Deputy made a contribution already in her leader's stead. I see the Deputy’s name here, but she has already spoken.

That is fine.