asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if in view of the different accounts of the discussions between Mr. Atkins, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, the Minister for Justice and himself he will clarify the position by informing the House of the main issues dealt with and the proposals made in particular in regard to facilities for RUC officers to question people here; and if he will give details of the new Garda anti-terrorism unit now operating along the border as stated by Mr. Atkins.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Discussions with British Secretary of State.
27.
I refer the Deputy to the agreed Joint Communique which issued after the meeting from which it is clear that we discussed a wide range of topics including the political situation in Northern Ireland, security co-operation and North-South economic co-operation.
As this was the first meeting between the Secretary of State and members of the Irish Government the initial discussion between the Ministers over lunch was general and introductory. Subsequently we were joined by officials and as the total meeting including private luncheon for the Ministers lasted two and a half hours no detailed negotiations on any issue were contemplated or took place. I do not consider it helpful to understanding and co-operation to publicly disclose any detail or reference, however tentative, to matters of a security nature. However, I can indicate that because of the nature of the meeting and the limited time available there was no detailed discussion on any topic.
I have asked the Minister to give me information about the anti-terrorism unit now operating on the Border.
As the Deputy will appreciate from my answer, it is not appropriate that I or anybody else should disclose in public what was discussed in relation to security matters. The Deputy also asked about proposals in regard to the facilities for RUC officers. A proposal was made for which an answer was not sought on the occasion. It is not proposed to accept that proposal.
I do not want to be unhelpful. I accept that the Minister is being very sincere. Nevertheless I also think that if the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland states certain things relative to the jurisdiction of the Republic of Ireland, this Government should either confirm or deny what has been said.
I have been in contact with the Secretary of State and conveyed the views that I have conveyed to-day in relation to disclosing matters pertaining to security.
If it were possible to identify the person that question No. 17 refers to, would the Minister agree to allow the RUC down here to interrogate him?
I have no control over that.
Would that not be agreed?
At the meeting referred to in the question or at any meeting between the Minister and his counterpart in Great Britain, has the question of British withdrawal from the Six Counties ever been raised?
That is a separate question. It does not arise.
The general policy positions of both Governments were discussed.
I am asking the Minister specifically was that question raised?
The remaining questions will be dealt with by way of written reply.