asked the Taoiseach if he has protested to the British Government against the introduction of a Bill in the House of Commons guaranteeing the so-called integrity of Northern Ireland, thereby perpetuating the crime of Partition; if, further, he will indicate to the British Government that such a step can only be regarded by the Government of the Republic of Ireland as an affront to the Irish nation which must precipiate a serious rupture of Anglo-Irish relations.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - British Bill.
The Government have made a strong protest to the British Government against the provisions in the Bill referred to by the Deputy which purport to guarantee the continuance of Partition.
Will the Taoiseach state if he has indicated to the British Government the widespread belief held throughout the nation that the carrying through of this act of aggression by Britain will be resisted by our fellow-countrymen in the North; and, further, will he inform the British Government that the Government of the Republic of Ireland will give aid and succour in every form to our Northern fellow-countrymen in their efforts to achieve that common freedom we are all seeking—the re-establishment of the de facto 32-county republic of Ireland?
A protest in strong and emphatic language has been served on the British Government in this matter. As to the other topics referred to by the Deputy in his supplementary question, I think I had better refrain from saying anything until I make my statement in moving the motion down in my name to-day.