asked the Taoiseach if the terms of the Flags and Emblems Bill, approved by the Stormont Government, have been brought to his notice; and if, in view of the fact that Nationalist citizens of the Six Counties regard the tricolour of the Republic of Ireland as their national emblem, he will, on behalf of the Government of the Republic, protest against the introduction of such a measure which is designed to prevent the flying of the tricolour in the Six Counties.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Flags and Emblems Bill (Northern Ireland).
I have seen the Bill referred to by the Deputy.
I am satisfied that nothing effective would be achieved by a protest and accordingly I do not propose to make one.
Does the Taoiseach not regard it as a very serious matter that the tricolour may not be allowed to fly in six counties of Ireland?
I do regard it as a serious matter but it all arises out of the fact that our country is partitioned.
You are not taking very many steps to end it.
If the Deputy or anybody else can give us some indication of effective steps to end it they will be considered.
Could the Taoiseach say if he is aware whether there is in existence in any other democratic State legislation forbidding the display of the national flag of another country?
I am not so aware.