Ruairí Quinn
Question:58 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when it is proposed that the parliamentary tier of the British-Irish Council will be operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14942/00]
Written Answers. - British-Irish Council.
Jack Wall
Question:61 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when the next meeting of the British-Irish Council is due to take place; the proposed agenda for the meeting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14941/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 58 and 61 together.
Following the restoration of the Executive and Assembly in Northern Ireland, the British-Irish Council has, like the other institutions established under the Good Friday Agreement, been able to resume full operation. The members of the council are currently considering the earliest practicable date for its next summit meeting, which will be held in Dublin. The main item on the agenda for that meeting is intended to be consideration of co-operation on issues relating to drugs.
I would fully support the development of an interparliamentary tier to the British-Irish Council. I am conscious, however, that this is a matter for the Oireachtas and the other elected institutions concerned. I am aware that the existing British-Irish Interparliamentary Body is considering this question, and I look forward with interest to the outcome of the body's deliberations.