Would the Tánaiste join with me in welcoming the reported remarks of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland in Downpatrick yesterday which, while not exactly optimistic, were at least hopeful? This apparent movement ought to be encouraged in every way possible by this Government, always remembering, of course, that any form of political dialogue at this stage in Northern Ireland circumstances is a very fragile plant that needs to be nurtured carefully and with sensitivity. In those circumstances maximum encouragement behind the scenes as well as publicly ought to be given to those involved in these delicate explorations.