ST PATRICK'S DAY 2016

That this House notes that 17 March each year marks St Patrick's Day; understands that this day is an opportunity to celebrate the diverse cultures and heritage of the island of lreland, as well as highlighting the massive contribution that Ireland and its diaspora has made in shaping nations across the globe; understands that the people of Scotland, England and Wales, and in particular those within the village of Old Kilpatrick, have a strong connection to St Patrick, as Old Kilpatrick, in the ancient county Dunbartonshire, is believed to be Patrick's birthplace as denoted by the county and subsequent local authorities’ use of the St Patrick's Saltire flag and that this represents just one of the many bonds that unite the people of these islands in friendship; and wishes all those in the isle of lreland and the diaspora across the world health, happiness and peace as they celebrate St Patrick's Day.