Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 27 Jan 1994

Vol. 437 No. 7

Written Answers. - British-Irish Parliamentary Association.

Enda Kenny

Question:

57 Mr. E. Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will consider an expansion of the terms of reference and responsibilities of the British-Irish Parliamentary Association; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Spring)

As I have made clear on a number of occasions, I greatly appreciate the valuable contribution made by the British-Irish inter-parliamentary body to the promotion of understanding and co-operation within these islands. Having regard to the basis on which it operates, any change in the body's terms of reference and responsibilities is, of course, a matter for the body itself to consider in the first instance. I can assure the Deputy that, in consultation with my British counterpart, I would be pleased to give careful consideration to any such proposals which the body might wish to put forward.

In keeping with my commitment to ensure that the body receives all appropriate assistance, I was pleased to respond positively to its invitation last year to address its plenary session and to be the first member of either Government to participate in its Question Time. I am happy to welcome these innovations as indicative of the body's interest in reviewing and adapting its procedures to meet changing circumstances.