asked the Taoiseach whether, with reference to his recent statement to the English Press in regard to reunification, he has formulated conditions on which a united ireland would enter the British Commonwealth.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Reunification: Re-entry to British commonwealth
The answer is in the negative.
asked the Taoiseach if he is in favour of re-entry to the Commonwealth of a united Ireland, and if this matter is under consideration having regard to his recent statement in London on the subject of a united Ireland.
The statement referred to by the Deputy was made in reply to questions put to me by representatives of the Press. The question of association in any form with the British Commonwealth arises only in connection with Partition. My views on the form of association that might be possible between a united Ireland and the British Commonwealth have been frequently expressed and are, I think, well know. They were again made clear at the Press conference in London. But, as the matter is hypothetical there would be no purpose in elaborating upon it, and it is not under consideration.
Would the Taoiseach be in a position to elaborate on the views to which the Parliamentary Secretary referred in that reply?
I do not understand the point in the Deputy's question.
If I am correct, the parliamentary Secretary said that the house and the country were well aware of the Taoiseach's views in respect of some form of association with the Commonwealth. I am asking the Taoiseach if he would be prepared to elaborate on these views?
As I have said, the matter is purely hypothetical and there would be no point in my doing what the Deputy asks.
I think the Taoiseach is being unfair to himself if he leaves these views unexpressed at a time like this in the light of his interview with the British Press.
I was asked questions by representatives of the various newspapers on this, that and the other and one of the questions elicited a certain reply. I take it, it is that reply which has given rise to this question. Anything I had to say, I said it then and it is clear.
It is not a bit clear.
No.