asked the Taoiseach the date of his next meeting with the British Prime Minister.
3.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Talks with British Premier.
2.
asked the Taoiseach if any meeting has been arranged between himself and the British Prime Minister; if so, for what date; and if any agenda is being drawn up.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 2 and 3 together. No arrangements have been made as yet for a further meeting between myself and the British Prime Minister.
Did the Taoiseach not say in this House that it was proposed to have a second meeting at an early date?
I did not.
Can the Taoiseach say who is supposed to take the initiative, himself or Mr. Heath?
That will be done mutually. We will be in touch with each other through the ordinary channels.
You will ask each other at the same time?
Not necessarily, but wavelengths can be sent out.
Would the Taoiseach not agree that it is vital that a meeting should take place at an early date in view of what is happening at the moment in the North?
I hope a meeting will take place but it will be a matter for my decision and judgment as to when.
Does the Taoiseach think it will take place before Christmas?
I do not know yet.
Question No. 4.
Will it be an automatic continuation of the previous meeting or does the Taoiseach think there will be new matters on the agenda for the next meeting?
The next meeting was originally proposed to include much more wide-ranging matters than the first two, including Common Market entry, the Anglo-Irish Free Trade Agreement and such other matters of mutual interest.
Specifically in relation to Northern Ireland can the Taoiseach say whether this will be a continuation of the discussion at the previous meeting or does he see new matters being raised at the subsequent meeting?
I do not know what the Deputy means by new matters. If he gave me some indication I might be able to help him.
Does the Taoiseach see himself bringing any further pressure on the internment without trial issue at the next meeting?
That is not a new matter so far as I am concerned.
I know it is not a new matter but does the Taoiseach see himself coming forward with any new proposals?
If I have any proposals I will make them at the right time and in the appropriate place. I will not make them here in this House.