asked the Minister for External Affairs whether he has seen a report of an interview with the Russian Ambassador to the United States, in which reference was made an "Irish delegation" which recently visited Russia as guests of the Soviet Government, and in which the Ambassador expressed the view that such visits were good and should be encouraged, and, if so, if he will state what action was taken, or will be taken, to demonstrate that no sanction was given by the Irish Government for the acceptance of this invitation or for describing the travellers as an Irish delegation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Irish Group's Visit to Russia.
I have read the report to which the Deputy refers. As I have already informed the Deputy in reply to a question last week no facilities other than the normal passport facilities were sought from or granted by my Department.
I understand from Press reports that the persons concerned claimed to be travelling in a purely individual capacity.
Is the Minister aware of the part played by Deputy Brady when it was being demonstrated by the then Government in 1931 that they disapproved of a previous delegation to Russia in 1925?
Mr. Lemass
What dirt is the Deputy trying to stir up? Try to get yourself clear.
The Deputy should clear up his own stables first.
Mr. Lemass
Let us get this dirt out in the open.
What about the Deputy's colleagues who went to Russia and said they were proud of it?
Order, order!
Mr. Lemass
Do not put up a stooge in the back to throw the mud pies.
Would the Deputy not have enough courage to put down the dirty question which he has got his colleague behind him to put down? Why had the Deputy who put down the question not enough courage to come into the House and ask the question?
The Deputy who put down that question did not have enough courage to come into the House to take the question. He was too ashamed.
Question No. 44.