I will take the opportunity to highlight the commemoration celebrations of the birth of Admiral William Brown from Foxford, County Mayo. Members may be interested to know that he was the founder of the Argentinian navy. He was born in 1777 in Foxford and led an incredible life. He was very much inspired by the opportunity to help to achieve independence for Argentina, having left Ireland, which was under much oppression and political, economical and societal strife at the time. The impact he made is incredible. The weekend celebration was the 249th anniversary of his birth. There was a Mass in Foxford church and a march through the street by the Foxford Brass Band, which is celebrating its 130th anniversary. This was followed by speeches at the walkway by the River Moy and a get-together in the Admiral Brown Memorial Hall.

The committee is gearing up for the 250th celebrations next year. I am asking for the support of the House to make sure that the Government and all key stakeholders in the Irish Embassy in Argentina and indeed the Argentinian Embassy here support the committee's efforts to make sure we put on a show and a real celebration of the ties that link both countries, in particular the Admiral William Brown connection in Foxford. A play is being launched later this year called Liam. I met some of its producers at the weekend. They are enthusiastic. It was great to see the number of Argentinians, members of their diaspora here, celebrating the exploits of the Argentinian team over the past two games in the World Cup. They are passionate about the strong values and ties that connect both countries. I acknowledge Margaret Reilly, chair of the committee, who is doing brilliant work. We want as much support as possible for the committee ahead of the 250th celebrations next year, including the naval ship from Argentina, the Libertad . Hopefully, it will dock in Dublin and around Kilcummin Bay.