asked the Taoiseach if he will consider the advisability of requesting news media and RTE to refrain voluntarily from presenting features or interviews during the coming two weeks which might have the effect of creating or increasing tension in the North of Ireland.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Northern Situation.
1.
I am satisfied that all the media referred to are already fully aware of the heavy responsibilities that rest on them at the present time and that they will be concerned to avoid publication of any matter that might tend to affect adversely the situation in the north. Accordingly I do not consider that any request by me on the lines suggested is necessary.
Has the Taoiseach any plans for utilising UTV to speak to people in the north about his policy on the matter?
There are no plans to speak on UTV.
Would the Taoiseach agree that there is a grave responsibility on the head of the Government here to explain fully to the majority in the North of Ireland the features of the present policy of the Government and other parties in this House on our approach to the north?
That is a responsibility that rests on everybody who wants a moderate and reasonable approach to the problem.
Would the Taoiseach agree that on his shoulders especially there lies a heavy burden to explain our policy to the majority in the north at present and that UTV should be fully utilised if their facilities——
That is a separate question. Question No. 2.