Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 4 Apr 1995

Vol. 451 No. 5

Written Answers. - Framework Document Talks.

Máirín Quill

Question:

41 Miss Quill asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the form he envisages the talks process will take in view of the publication of the Framework Document; whether it is the Government's intention to press for round table talks or for bilateral talks; and the extent of the Irish Government's involvement in these talks. [6862/95]

Ray Burke

Question:

59 Mr. R. Burke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the action, if any, he has taken to commence specific talks with any parties on the Framework Document in view of the fact that document comes under the Strand 2 process involving Governmental action. [6845/95]

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Spring)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 41 and 59 together.

The Irish and British Governments have indicated in the Framework Document that we wish to see a comprehensive and inclusive talks process begin as soon as possible.

We have asked the Northern Ireland parties to study the document carefully and to let us have their considered views on it.

We believe that the approach proposed in the document offers enormous potential for the achievement of a new and lasting political accommodation between Nationalism and Unionism. We hope that others will recognise this and will accept it as a basis for future discussion. Both Governments have made clear, however, that we will welcome all other proposals from any quarter designed to meet the same ends.

The Taoiseach and I have made clear our availability for immediate discussions with the parties, separately or collectively, on the way forward, whether as proposed in the Framework Document or otherwise.

In particular we would hope that the leaders of the main Unionist parties will reconsider their present position, both in regard to the Framework Document and the overall objective of comprehensive dialogue, which the document seeks to promote rather than preempt. Pending the establishment of formal discussions, we will continue to seek to advance the process of dialogue with these parties in all the private or informal contacts open to us.

The goal of comprehensive and inclusive round-table talks, of course, will require the agreement of all potential participants. Until that can be achieved, both Governments will seek to maximise dialogue on a bilateral level. I would hope the Northern parties would embark on bilateral contacts among themselves, so as to further the process of understanding, including of the Framework Documents, which unfortunately have unfortunately been misrepresented in various ways for polemic purposes. Such bilateral contacts at all levels would not substitute the need for comprehensive, round-table, talks. However, I believe, they could be a valuable preparation for them and help to bring them closer by enhancing the general confidence that an honourable accommodation can be achieved, with flexibility and goodwill on all sides.