Vol. 450 No. 3
9 Mr. B. Ahern asked the Taoiseach if he will introduce legislation to extend to members of the Forum for Peace and Reconciliation suitable privileges and immunities similar to those enjoyed by members of other democratic assemblies. [4407/95]
I assume from the Deputy's question that he is referring to privileges and immunities on the lines of those accorded to Oireachtas Members under Article 15.13 of the Constitution. The Government has no plans to extend by legislation similar privileges and immunities to forum members. The Deputy would, I believe, agree that the arrangements in respect of the Forum for Peace and Reconciliation are working well.
I thank the Taoiseach for his reply. Has he received any response from his representation to the British Government which I am aware he took up officially some weeks ago regarding our two forum colleagues, Mary Neilis and Dodie McGuinness?
We made inquiries about the matter and we were informed of the factual situation, that one person is being charged. It would be appropriate, therefore, to await the outcome of any court proceedings before commenting further.
