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St Patrick’s Day: Irish Diaspora in the UK
14 March 2024
Lead MP
Rebecca Long-Bailey
Salford
Lab
Responding Minister
Steven Baker
Tags
NHSEmployment
Word Count: 16748
Other Contributors: 10
At a Glance
Rebecca Long-Bailey raised concerns about st patrick’s day: irish diaspora in the uk in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
I ask the government to recognise and celebrate the ongoing contributions of the Irish diaspora in every aspect of UK life, from healthcare to politics, science, and arts.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
I am concerned about the immense and multifaceted contribution of the Irish diaspora to the UK, including cultural, political, business, healthcare, and social impacts. Statistics show that as of June 2023, 13,700 NHS staff in England are Irish nationals, with around 2,300 doctors and over 4,200 nurses. There is also an estimated 5 million people with at least one Irish parent or grandparent.
Andrew Rosindell
Con
Romford
I was proud to co-chair the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly from 2016 to 2022, promoting relations between Britain and Ireland as well as the devolved legislatures. I paid tribute to Irish cultural institutions in my constituency on St Patrick's Day. Acknowledged the significant contribution of Irish people to Great Britain and suggested that it would be wonderful if Ireland joined the Commonwealth. Also proposed flying the cross of St Patrick in government buildings on St Patrick's day.
Andrew Slaughter
Lab
Hammersmith and Chiswick
Praised the Irish Cultural Centre in Hammersmith, highlighting its contributions to arts, literature, and music. Emphasized the importance of community-driven initiatives and the support from local authorities, housing associations, and the Irish embassy.
Claire Hanna
SDLP
Belfast South and Mid Down
Celebrated the Irish contribution to Britain, mentioning cultural achievements like Cillian Murphy's Oscar win. Emphasised the importance of the Good Friday agreement for fostering a positive relationship between Ireland and Britain.
Fleur Anderson
Lab
Putney
Celebrated the Irish contribution to British life, highlighted the importance of recognising and supporting the Irish diaspora through various cultural centres and events. Mentioned that in the 2021 census, 362,000 people in England and Wales identified as Irish either solely or in combination with a UK national identity.
Hayes and Harlington
Paid tribute to Breandán Mac Lua, editor of The Irish Post, for holding the Irish community together through information and activities, even in tough times. Also mentioned Brendan Mulkere's work in teaching various generations Irish dance and music.
Karen Bradley
Con
Stafffordshire Moorlands
Pays tribute to co-sponsor for highlighting the Irish community's contribution in the UK, shares personal and family connections with Ireland. Emphasizes the importance of political stability in Northern Ireland and acknowledges the role of key figures like James Brokenshire, John Hume, and Lord Trimble. Highlights her work as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and her co-chairmanship of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly. Acknowledged the historical significance of joint efforts in World War I and highlighted the symbolic moment when the Irish ambassador laid a wreath at the Cenotaph for the first time, marking improved relations. Apologised for intervening and thanked the hon. Lady for giving way, mentioning her co-chair of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly, Brendan Smith TD, who is a champion for the British-Irish relationship. I did, confirming a previous statement or action she took.
Karin Smyth
Lab
Bristol South
Grateful to my hon. Friend for her kind words about the all-party group, Karin Smyth mentioned the importance of recognising both the past and future contributions of the Irish diaspora.
Mark Logan
Con
Bolton North East
Acknowledged the significant contributions of Irish people to British society, highlighting personal stories and historical figures. Emphasised the impact of the Irish diaspora on industries such as construction and politics.
Martin Docherty
SNP
West Dunbartonshire
He discussed his personal connections to the Irish diaspora, highlighting the historical and familial ties between Scotland and Ireland. He mentioned a DNA test revealing extensive family connections across the globe, including in Letterkenny where he found relatives. Martin stressed the importance of commemorating the contributions of Irish workers during industrial times and acknowledged Rita Dawson's leadership in palliative care. He also suggested reviving Scottish Irish clubs to celebrate St Patrick's heritage. That's not me, clarifying his constituency as West Dunbartonshire.
Rachel Hopkins
Lab
Luton South and South Bedfordshire
Highlighted the significant contribution of the Irish diaspora in Luton, noting that 3% of Luton identifies as white Irish, more than three times the average for England and Wales. Emphasised cultural influences like music, sports, and dancing, mentioning local pubs and festivals celebrating Irish culture. Praised Luton Irish Forum for its work promoting Irish identity and supporting community members.
Government Response
Steven Baker
Government Response
Responded to the debate by thanking speakers for their contributions and acknowledging the significant impact of the Irish diaspora on UK society. Emphasised the importance of the Common Travel Area, praised the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly and intergovernmental relations, and highlighted economic ties between the UK and Ireland. Acknowledged the historical and cultural significance of Irish-UK relations and committed to supporting initiatives that facilitate easier access for Irish residents in the UK to become British citizens.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.