Mary Harney
Question:5 Miss Harney asked the Taoiseach the formal meetings, if any, he has had with the President; his intentions regarding formal meetings with the President; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1884/95]
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Taoiseach's Meetings with President.
I assure the House that I fully discharge the duty placed on me by Article 28.5.2º of the Constitution to keep the President generally informed on matters of domestic and international policy. I would not regard it as appropriate or in keeping with the constitutional position to depart from precedent by giving details of such meetings.
I intend that meetings will take place regularly both by specific appointment and on occasions when I meet the President in the performance of our respective duties. Additionally, my Department keeps in touch, on a daily basis, with the Office of the President on a wide variety of matters.
I did not ask the Taoiseach for details of his meetings with the President. Will he give me an assurance that, for example, if the President were asked to co-chair a working group on reform of the United Nations — which she was asked to do before — he would take a very positive view of such a role for her and would be supportive of any such invitation?
I am concerned that the President should be brought into controversy in the House.
On the contrary, a Cheann Comhairle, I am seeking to expand the role of the President. I am seeking to assist her, not bring her into controversy.
Question No. 6, please.
A Cheann Comhairle, I think the Taoiseach should be allowed to answer that question since his party had very strong views on this matter in Opposition.
I am anxious to facilitate the Deputy in most matters but I am sure she will have regard to what I have said, that the President should not be drawn into controversy in this House.
I am not seeking to draw the President into controversy but am asking the Taoiseach if he will give me an assurance that the Government would take a positive view of any such invitation to the President?
Mr. B. Ahern rose.
I am sorry, Deputy, I will allow no further reference to the President. I am calling question No. 6.