US-Cuba diplomatic relations
Senator Leyden seconds the proposed procedural amendment and welcomes restored US-Cuba diplomatic relations, while the Chair clarifies that his remarks do not constitute another amendment.
I second the proposal by Senator Darragh O'Brien that No. 70, motion No. 20 on the Order Paper be taken without debate before No. 1. I also welcome the re-establishment of diplomatic relations between the United States of America and Cuba, but it is most unfortunate that the Senate has vetoed the appointment of the ambassador in Washington from Cuba. It has the embassy opened, but it will not have an ambassador. It is an awful insult to the President of the United States that he cannot have an ambassador approved from Cuba to the United States. I presume the American ambassador will be approved in Cuba. It is 54 years since the breakdown in diplomatic relations happened under Eisenhower. On "Morning Ireland" this morning the friends of Cuba complimented the leader of Fianna Fáil, the first European Minister for Foreign Affairs to visit Cuba despite the veto by the United States of America. It showed that Fianna Fáil has an independent approach to international affairs. It should be noted from the Order Paper today that this is a fact. I congratulate Deputy Micheál Martin on his courage and having the courage of his convictions to visit there.
Regarding wishing everybody well for the summer, I have read that there is a possibility the Seanad might not meet again in this building after the summer recess.
I suggest we move to Farmleigh and that there should be a separation of both Houses of the Oireachtas. The Dáil can stay in its Chamber and as I have no particular wish to sit there for two days, we should move to Farmleigh. It has good facilities and good parking. I was never invited there but from what I see on the television it is very nice.
