asked the Taoiseach if, in view of the present economic distress in the Six County area, he considers it appropriate to make an approach to the head of the Six County Government with a view to creating a greater economic unity in the whole country, and so further the way to a politically and economically united Ireland.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Economic Unity: Approach to Six-County Government.
1.
I have repeatedly expressed the view that, irrespective of political considerations, the co-ordination of economic policies and the growth of practical co-operation in dealing with economic and trade problems would result in substantial benefit to the people of both areas. While I should welcome an opportunity of a discussion of possibilities for co-operation, I do not think that circumstances are at present favourable to an approach such as that suggested in the Question.
Did I understand the Taoiseach to say that he does not consider the present situation favourable, or did he say "unfavourable"?
What I said was that I do not think that circumstances are at present favourable to an approach such as that suggested in the Question.
Does the Taoiseach not consider that on account of the economic situation within the Six Counties it would be a most appropriate moment to have a discussion?
In view of the Taoiseach's reported statement in today's paper, made at the Ard Fheis yesterday, that we shall never by our policy seek to secure the economic advantage of the South at the expense of the North——
The Deputy may not quote.
——will he indicate to the House how he can reconcile that report with his recent decision to establish in Cork, at the expense of the Irish taxpayer to the tune of £4 million, a shipping industry owned by a non-national——
The Deputy may not make an argument.
——while at the same time 5,000 to 7,000 workers in Belfast were likely to lose their employment through the closing down of the shipyard?
The Deputy is endeavouring to advance argument by means of a Question.
Is it not a fact that this industry in Cork is one that will affect the livelihood of workers in the Six Counties?
Question No. 2.