John Bruton
Question:10 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Taoiseach the commitments, if any, he has given to hold State receptions before the end of 1997. [15471/97]
Ceisteanna—Questions. - State Receptions.
Some months ago, across the floor of the House, arising out of exchanges between us, I suggested to the then Taoiseach, Deputy John Bruton, that I would support the idea of holding a State reception, on an all-party basis, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the foundation of the Irish Free State on 6 December 1997 in Dublin Castle. This will be an historic commemoration and it is my intention that it will be as inclusive as possible to honour all the people who made a contribution to the establishment of national independence and the foundation of the State, and to bring together in a spirit of harmony different political traditions in this State.
My office will be in touch with Deputy John Bruton and other Opposition leaders about the more detailed arrangements in due course, as I intend it to be a politically ecumenical occasion.
The Government also intends to hold a State reception in honour of the newly elected President in Dublin Castle on the date of the Presidential Inauguration which will take place on Tuesday, 11 November 1997. I have no other proposals for State receptions for the remainder of 1997 at the moment.