Proinsias De Rossa
Question:3 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Taoiseach if he will outline the purpose of his meeting with representatives of the SDLP on 7 June 1991; the matters discussed at the meeting; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Meeting with SDLP.
It would not be appropriate to give details of confidential discussions of this nature.
First, it would be appropriate to welcome the fact that the first strand of talks are now under way in Northern Ireland. This is a historic occasion and I wish them well. Will the Taoiseach indicate, in line with a commitment he gave in the House previously that he will consider ways of consulting the parties in Opposition in Dáil Éireann on developments in Northern Ireland, if he has decided yet in what why such consultations could take place? Will he take an early opportunity to meet the leaders of the parties in Opposition in the Dáil to brief them on developments?
The Deputy is clearly widening the scope of this question.
It may well be considered to be so but I asked about the meeting the Taoiseach had with the SDLP, a political party in Northern Ireland. I am simply asking if the Taoiseach would be prepared to extend the same courtesy to the parties in Dáil Éireann on the issue of talks in Northern Ireland.
I am not so sure about the use of the word "consultation", but it is my intention to keep Dáil Éireann fully informed as it is appropriate to do so.
I take the point with regard to consultation, but would the Taoiseach not consider it important to have at least the leaders of the parties in Opposition briefed on a regular basis with regard to developments of the talks, particularly as they approach the commencement of the second strand of talks which involve the Republic of Ireland?
The question relates to a meeting with the SDLP, and we are now having an extension of that question.