Bipartisanship, the political process by which opposing political parties find common ground through compromise, has, as we all know, been dying a slow death in the US to the point where it does not exist anymore except, remarkably, on St. Patrick's Day. Republican and Democrat Senators and Congressmen and Congresswomen vie with each other to participate in the events relating to what is a unique political day and to make themselves available to Irish politicians of every political hue, North and South. Does the Taoiseach agree with my assessment? Does he agree that this unique opportunity to wear the green jersey for Ireland is more vital this year than ever before and that failure to take it would demonstrate an abject failure of leadership and of understanding of the significance of the event and the value it holds for our country, our economic well-being, our strategic national interests and more?

I agree with the Deputy 100%. He articulated very well the importance of St. Patrick's week in the US, particularly in regard to solidarity with our significant diaspora there. The diaspora really values the engagement with Ireland. It is important in terms of the undocumented. The link with Senators and Congressmen and Congresswomen is extremely important in terms of looking out for the undocumented in various parts of the US.

They are being deported, actually.

The economic relationship is enormous. Many thousands of Irish livelihoods and Irish workers depend on the economic relationship between the United States and Ireland. That needs to be said. It has been taken too much for granted. Hence the need for a very proactive engagement for the entirety of St. Patrick’s week across the length and breadth of the US.