I want to discuss a problem I have tried to sort out over the last number of weeks. It is the issue of flying the Irish flag by an Irish team. Irish members of the International Sheepdog Society have been notified of a change in policy whereby the Irish team that represents the whole of Ireland at international events will not be allowed to fly the Irish flag when representing Ireland at world events. I have engaged with the new chairman and to say that he has been unco-operative would be an understatement. I would like this issue to be resolved because it will cause an ongoing row, North and South, in this country where we have seen peace in recent times.

I do not have a problem if a member of the team from Northern Ireland wishes to carry a symbol representing Northern Ireland. However, if somebody who is representing Ireland wants to a carry the Tricolour on his or her shoulder, he or she should be allowed to do so. I hope this can be resolved as a matter of urgency. We have seen the trials taking place in Northern Ireland this year. I would hope the Tricolour would be flown proudly, as it always has been, and would represent this country in the fashion it always has. I hope this can be resolved sooner rather than later. Perhaps my drawing attention to it might highlight the problem and get it resolved.