asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on the progress made to date in implementing the Anglo-Irish Agreement; and, if in view of the increased violence and tension in Northern Ireland and the growing alienation of the Unionist population, there are any plans to initiate discussions between the political parties in Northern Ireland with a view to achieving the objective set out in the Hillsborough Agreement of the establishment of devolved Government.
Written Answers. - Anglo-Irish Agreement.
14.
The Inter-Governmental Conference has held four meetings since the Anglo-Irish Agreement came into effect. The joint statements issued after each meeting contain details of the work undertaken and of the progress achieved. Copies of these statements have been placed in the Dáil Library.
As regards devolution, both Governments, in accordance with article 4 of the agreement, support devolution on a basis which would secure widespread acceptance throughout the community. Both Governments, further, recognise that devolution can be achieved only with the co-operation of the constitutional representatives within Northern Ireland of both traditions there.
On the basis of that policy, the Government wish to see the constitutional representatives of the Nationalist and Unionist traditions enter into constructive talks on devolution. In accordance with the agreement the Inter-Governmental Conference is a framework within which the Government may put forward views and proposals on the modalities of bringing about devolution in Northern Ireland in so far as they relate to the interests of the minority community.