asked the Minister for External Affairs if he has seen the text of any message received from President Nikolai Podgorny of Russia to the Irish people congratulating them on behalf of the people of USSR on the occasion of the anniversary of the Rising; if this cable has arrived as reported in Pravda of 13th April, 1966; if he will give the full text of this message; if it has been replied to; by what means the Government hopes to deal with this matter since there are no diplomatic relations between the two countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Russian President's Message.
2.
The following is a translation of a cablegram received by the President on the 15th April from Mr. Podgorny, Chairman of the Praesidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR:—
"On the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of the Irish National Rising of 1916, which was an important stage in the struggle of the Irish people for their independence, please accept, Mr. President, cordial congratulations and sincere wishes of happiness to you and to the people of Ireland from the peoples of the Soviet Union and myself personally."
The President replied to Mr. Podgorny thanking him for his message.
Could the Minister say if the President replied directly or what diplomatic channels did he use for the purpose of conveying his appreciation to the Russians for their good wishes?
The message was sent through the Soviet Embassy in London.
So we have correspondence with them.
Yes, we have. We have had many messages over the years.
The Minister sits with them in UNO. There is nothing wrong in that.