Vol. 416 No. 2
178 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on whether he can contribute to encouraging political agreement in Northern Ireland; and if so, if he will outline the way in which this encouragement can be given.
The Taoiseach has repeatedly stated that the search for political progress in relation to Northern Ireland is a major priority of this Government. He will be exploring with the British Prime Minister at their meeting tomorrow ways in which both Governments might advance this objective.
For my part, as Joint Chairman of the Anglo-Irish Intergovernmental Conference, I hope to use to the full the procedures established under the Anglo-Irish agreement to ensure recognition and respect for the rights and identities of the two communities in Northern Ireland and the right of each to pursue its aspirations by peaceful means, as well as to develop practical measures of co-operation which will be to the benefit of both communities and both parts of Ireland. I look forward to a first meeting with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland tomorrow and to a meeting of the Anglo-Irish Conference in the near future.
The policy of the Government has been to support the process of round-table talks in three strands based on the three key relationships involved. We will avail of every opportunity open to us to encourage political dialogue on this basis.
In our efforts to promote political agreement we also attach great importance to the fullest possible contact with leaders of the constitutional parties in Northern Ireland. The Taoiseach and I had a wide-ranging discussion with the SDLP on 24 February, covering all aspects of the current situation in Northern Ireland, including the prospect for political dialogue. We have also indicated publicly our readiness to meet representatives of the Unionist parties of Northern Ireland at any time and in any venue of their choosing.
