I gave notice that I would ask the Taoiseach whether he is aware that the Stormont Minister for Home Affairs has indicated that he will not discontinue B Special exercises of the kind which resulted in the death of Arthur Leonard of Armagh, and whether, in the light of this, he will state what steps the Government propose to take to protect our people in the Border areas from this armed menace.
Private Notice Question. - Six-County Shooting Incidents.
I have seen newspaper reports of statements made yesterday in the Six-County Parliament by Mr. Hanna, Minister of Home Affairs. Having admitted that it is with his approval and on the authority of his Government that the lives of innocent wayfarers are placed at the mercy of armed, undisciplined youths, who are let loose by night on the roads of the Six Counties, his attempt to rid himself and his Government of responsibility, and to cast it on the Government of Ireland, for the conditions that caused the recent tragedy can only be described as undignified and absurd. The intention, which he has indicated, of persisting in a course that has already caused the loss of one innocent life, and personal injury to others, cannot fail to shock impartial public opinion.
The actions of the Six-County Government have created danger enough. It is the duty of all of us here, Government, public representatives and people, to refrain from any words or acts that would make a bad situation worse.
I am confident that I am speaking for the entire House and people when I express sympathy with the relatives of the boy who has lost his life and with those who have been injured in these deplorable incidents.
Will the Taoiseach make strong representations to the British Government to restrain this puppet Government in the North of Ireland?
No.