asked the Taoiseach whether he will make a statement on the speech made by Mr. Brian Faulkner to the Parliament of Northern Ireland on 22nd June, 1971.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Northern Ireland Premier's Speech.
1.
I have noted the speech of Mr. Faulkner and the debate which took place in Stormont last week. Both sides expressed their views on fundamental issues. Both sides also expressed their views on the administration of the north and it is essential that this, for the future, should be in conformity with the Downing Street Declaration.
In this respect it would be in accordance with the spirit of the Downing Street Declaration and would be a gauge of sincerity on the part of the Unionist Government if it were made clear that sectarian parades will no longer be permitted in areas where they are not wanted by the local people.
Since this speech of Mr. Faulkner may represent a small step forward towards normal administration of that area, leading to some greater degree of participation by opposition elements, would the Taoiseach agree that the time is now opportune for a meeting between the Taoiseach and the British Prime Minister to decide on the broad, forward, advance programme for complete normalisation in the politics of the area?
I do not think one need necessarily associate the suggestions made by Mr. Faulkner and the meeting between Mr. Heath and me. Mr. Faulkner's proposals came in the course of a speech and were directed at the representatives of the minority in Stormont. It would be for the minority representatives to react and to show their reactions to Mr. Faulkner's proposals in the first instance.