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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 25 Mar 1971

Vol. 252 No. 9

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Northern Ireland Developments.

2.

asked the Taoiseach if he will make a statement on the latest political developments in Northern Ireland.

3.

asked the Taoiseach if he considers that the present disturbed state of Northern Ireland will have a retarding effect on the applications of the Republic and Britain for membership of the EEC; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 2 and 3 together.

As I said in the statement I issued on Tuesday last, I welcome the statements made by the new Prime Minister of Northern Ireland, Mr. Brian Faulkner, following his appointment as Prime Minister. I also welcome the statements made in the British House of Commons on Monday by Mr. Heath, Mr. Wilson and Mr. Thorpe.

It is clear from what all four have said that there is every intention to implement the Downing Street Declaration of the 19th August, 1969 concerning equality of treatment for everyone in Northern Ireland without regard to political views or religion.

In these circumstances I would reemphasise the remarks I especially addressed to the minority in the north asking them to give their confidence to the idea of using peaceful means only to express their aspirations. Nothing is to be gained by violence.

The present situation in Northern Ireland is not a factor in the negotiations for the enlargement of the European Communities.

May I ask the Taoiseach if he is now prepared to use the initiative and seek a meeting with the new Northern Ireland Prime Minister, to have direct discussions with him on matters of mutual concern?

That seems to be a separate question.

Well, it is a separate country in many respects. Perhaps the Taoiseach would give some indication to the House as to whether he will take some steps to arrange for such a meeting?

I am sorry, Deputy, but it does not arise on Questions Nos. 2 and 3.

Does the Taoiseach think that if the situation in Northern Ireland deteriorates further it may hamper our negotiations in respect of the Common Market?

I would urge the Deputy not to contemplate deterioration in this situation. That would be the best way to help.

I am merely asking whether if it did deteriorate the Taoiseach would think a point could be reached where our negotiations in respect of the Common Market would be hampered.

I do not believe so. The Fianna Fáil delegation which came back from Brussels yesterday very emphatically stated that the situation in Northern Ireland had no bearing on our application.

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