Statement from Ronan Vale in response to Neil Steen

I welcome Mr. Steens' engagement with his constituents, but I must correct a falsehood. I was born in Donegal. I am Irish, and I do not need my heritage explained to me by anyone. Ireland's Catholic tradition is an important part of our history, but no political party or religious group has the exclusive right to define what it means to be Irish. The days when some citizens were considered more Irish than others are behind us. Mr. Steens also seems concerned about my membership in the LGBTQ+ community. Let me be clear: my duty as Taoiseach is to serve all Irish people, not just those who share my beliefs, background, or identity. I would suggest he adopt the same standard. Ireland's future will be decided in the Dáil and at the ballot box, not through attacks on a person's birthplace, identity, or character. — Taoiseach Ronan Vale