asked the Taoiseach if he has had any communication with Captain O'Neill or Mr. Wilson regarding civil rights demands in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the Government's attitude.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Civil Rights in Northern Ireland.
1.
The Government's attitude in regard to basic human rights in the North is already wellknown and has the approval of the overwhelming majority of the Irish people in all parts of Ireland. I stated this attitude as recently as 28th January at the Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis: copies of my statement have been placed in the Library for information.
Arising out of the Taoiseach's reply, I understood him to say that a copy of his speech at the Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis has been placed in the Library of Oireachtas Éireann for our information.
That is the case. It is typical of my courtesy.
I yield to none in my admiration of the Taoiseach's courtesy, but would he think me unkind if I described this action as presumption? Personally, I would be inclined to go down, borrow it and put a match to it. This is unprecedented and I suggest to the Taoiseach it is highly undesirable that political leaders should put their speeches in the Library of the Oireachtas. They have no place there.
The Deputy is free to read or ignore my speech as he wishes.
(Cavan): May I ask if the same thing has been done in regard to the speech made by the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries on the same occasion?