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Taoiseach's Communications

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 December 2020

Wednesday, 16 December 2020

Questions (12)

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

12. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his recent phone call with the UK Prime Minister. [41795/20]

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Written answers

I spoke by phone with Prime Minister Johnson on 27 November. I raised the Finucane case with the Prime Minister and I restated the Government’s position on the establishment of a public inquiry. Previously, I met with Geraldine and John Finucane on Monday, 23 November to discuss their case and reaffirm the Government’s support. Following this meeting I wrote to the British Prime Minister about the case.

I am deeply disappointed that the UK Government has not committed to holding an independent public inquiry into the murder of Pat Finucane. The Government remains strongly of the view that a public inquiry is needed.

The decision is a further blow to Geraldine Finucane and her family, who have been pursuing truth and justice for three decades with great dignity. I spoke with Geraldine Finucane on 1 December and made it clear to her and her family that the Irish Government will continue to work with them to ensure an independent public inquiry is eventually held.

The Government will work with the Oireachtas collectively to articulate again the view that a full public inquiry must be held.

We will continue to work at both European and international level and we have bipartisan support in the United States from Congressman Richie Neal and Congressman Chris Smith.

Prime Minister Johnson and I also discussed latest developments on Covid-19 and the ongoing negotiations between the EU and the UK. I stressed that achieving a deal is in all our interests, but that time is tight.

We also discussed the forthcoming Climate Ambition Summit on 12 December.

Question No. 13 resubmitted.
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