93. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the action he is taking to develop bilateral relations with Canada, especially in the context of historical and cultural links. [56953/25]

Sentiment score: 0.00

My question concerns the importance of strengthening Ireland’s bilateral relations with Canada, a country with which we share deep historical and cultural roots.

Sentiment score: 0.78

It is very positive to hear that all that work is ongoing. County Louth has a unique connection. Carlingford is the birthplace of Thomas D'Arcy McGee, one of the founding fathers of the Canadian Confederation, which leaves a legacy of democracy in the shaping of modern Canada. In more recent times, the library in DKIT was named after General John de Chastelain in honour of his vital role in the peace process and the leadership of the Independent International Commission on Decommissioning. I ask the Department to explore targeted funding and partnership initiatives to deepen Irish Canadian links, cultural and heritage products, academic exchanges and collaborations that will bring our communities closer together, particularly in County Louth.

Sentiment score: 0.29

Absolutely.

Sentiment score: 0.00

It is great to hear that Prime Minister Carney is coming to Ireland. We will absolutely open the céad mile fáilte to him. A predecessor of his, Brian Mulroney, was in Carlingford to open the Thomas D’Arcy McGee memorial. We are always welcoming our Canadian and American friends in County Louth. As the Tánaiste knows, investment would honour that shared past and create new opportunities in education, research and innovation, which are areas where Ireland and Canada share real common strengths and values. I look forward to engaging with the Minister, the Minister of State, Deputy Richmond, and the Department in relation to how we can develop bilateral and cultural relations and support the direction of funds towards County Louth.

Sentiment score: 0.49