Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 February 2014
26. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the details of his discussions at the recent meeting with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Theresa Villiers MP, regarding the ongoing political talks in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8117/14]
View answer29. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on his recent engagements with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Theresa Villiers MP; and the discussion that took place regarding the ongoing political talks in Northern Ireland. [7991/14]
View answer32. Deputy Eric Byrne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will provide an update on developments on the Haas proposals; and if the Irish and British Governments are considering intervention to advance progress; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8000/14]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 26, 29 and 32 together.
I met with the Secretary of State most recently on 6 February 2014 to discuss the current political talks and how to take forward the compromise proposals on contentious issues facing Northern Ireland.
We agreed that we wish to see the Northern Ireland Parties reach agreement as soon as possible and without further delay. I spoke with the Secretary of State by telephone on 12 February and we further agreed that we would speak again this week to review the situation. In the meantime our officials have been working together to consider how the two governments can best continue to support the talks process.
