asked the Taoiseach why only certain members of the Six County House of Commons and Senate were invited to the Inauguration of the President on the 25th June last; and whether consideration was given to the issue of invitations to all members.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Invitations to Inauguration of President.
1.
As regards the first part of the Deputy's question, invitations to the inauguration of the President on the 25th June last were issued to members of the Six County House of Commons and Senate who were considered likely to welcome such invitations. This was in accordance with the long-standing practice in regard to invitations to major official functions.
The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative.
Might I ask the Taoiseach would he not consider it reasonable to suggest at this stage that the Members who were invited to the Presidential Inauguration should be invited—if they were elected in the Six Counties for that purpose—to take their seats in Dáil Éireann?
That is an entirely different matter.
Well, Sir, it arises out of the invitations issued to these people to attend a function of State here. Surely the same gentlemen, or individuals, who were invited to the Presidential Inauguration should be allowed—if they were elected for that purpose——
The Deputy is making an argument, not asking a question.
If it is a matter that you, Sir, wish to prevent the Taoiseach from answering——
I cannot accept anything that is irrelevant.
If he does not wish to answer then I cannot force him.