asked the Taoiseach whether he has sought a meeting with the British Prime Minister, Mr. Wilson, to discuss EEC entry negotiations and the political situation in the Six Counties; and, if not, when he will seek such a meeting.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Membership of EEC.
2.
With regard to the political situation in the Six Counties I would refer the Deputy to the replies I gave to similar questions on the 4th and 24th February last. With regard to Common Market entry negotiations there are no indications that there is need at present for discussions at Prime Minister level on this subject.
In relation to the situation in Northern Ireland the Taoiseach has simply referred us to answers he gave in February last. Since February——
Has the Deputy a question?
Would the Taoiseach agree that since February there has been a deterioration in the north and such a deterioration would surely warrant his being in touch with Mr. Wilson on this matter?
There has been some deterioration in certain respects but I want to assure the Deputy and the House that the Government are keeping in close touch with the situation. We want to ensure that anything which requires to be done will be done in the best interests of achieving, first of all, peace in the Six Counties and ultimately the unity of the country. We want to avoid taking action that would be inimical to these two objectives. I can assure the Deputy that nothing that requires to be done will be left undone.
Will the Taoiseach explain how it could be inimical to the attainment of these objectives for him to keep in touch with Mr. Wilson? If he is not keeping in touch with Mr. Wilson himself will he say how it is being done? Is it simply at ambassadorial level?
The Deputy as a result of his own experience will know how Prime Ministers can keep in touch with each other without personal meetings. Everything in that direction that is necessary is being done.