asked the Taoiseach if, having regard to the undesirability of continuing to use British Ministers as the sole means of conveying the views of the Government and the citizens of this State to the authorities in Northern Ireland and having regard to the need to increase understanding and promote direct contact between all Irishmen without regard to political or religious beliefs, he will appoint a person in Belfast, on either an offical or an informal basis, to represent the Government; and, if not, why.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Northern Situation.
1.
I would be happy to consider any useful means of improving existing communications with the north, but I believe that the appointment of a resident agent in Belfast would not be appropriate in present circumstances.
Would the Taoiseach not agree that there is always the possibility of misunderstandings and perhaps misrepresentations arising whenever a third party is used for communications? Having regard to the desirability of restarting the constructive approaches made in recent times, would the Taoiseach not now endeavour to ensure acceptance of the idea of an agent in Belfast who could communicate with the Government and all sections of the people in view of the danger that communication with one section could be misunderstood by other sections?
I recognise there would be a danger of misunderstanding when one has to rely on third party communication. As the Deputy is aware, we have available to us first-hand information but, as I said in my direct reply, I would not rule out at all the possibility of establishing some communications medium as has been suggested. However, I think the Deputy will agree that the time is not now appropriate.
Would the Taoiseach consider asking the third party—at the moment the British Government—to have this matter seriously and sympathetically considered?
I would, but not now.
Would the Taoiseach not consider an application to the United Nations for an observer to act in the capacity as suggested by Deputy Ryan?
The position in relation to the United Nations is that the host country, which is the official term, must agree in relation to observers or other persons representing the United Nations visiting the country in question.
In his recent contacts with the British Government, can the Taoiseach report any progress in his request that areas other than the traditional anti-Unionist areas should be disarmed? Has the Taoiseach any information for the House suggesting that an arms check will be under way in other parts of Northern Ireland—
That is a separate question. It does not arise on Question No. 1.
I would reply but the Ceann Comhairle has ruled it out of order.
There are Private Questions arising later to the Taoiseach. This matter does not arise on Question No. 1.
On the general lines of the question, has the Taoiseach any indication to give to the House about any tripartite talks being held before the Summer is over? Has he any information from the Tory Government——
This does not arise on Question No. 1.
I have no information now but, as the Deputy is aware, the Minister for External Affairs is going to London tomorrow and something might develop from that.
2.
asked the Taoiseach if direct representations have been made to the British Government concerning the suggestion that a new militia force might be established in Northern Ireland; and if he will state the result of any such representations.
While I am satisfied that there was no serious intention to consider the creation of a new militia force in the north, I nevertheless had our views on the subject made known in London.
Can the Taoiseach say if the representations also included the suggestion that the RUC might be rearmed and our objections to that course?
That has been made known already.
Will the Taoiseach state if any direct representations have been made to the Prime Minister of Northern Ireland about this matter and, if not, why not?
No direct representations have been made.