asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of Anglo-Irish Inter-Government Council Meetings held since 28 May 1982; and if he will give details.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers - Anglo-Irish Meetings.
27.
The only meeting in the Anglo-Irish Inter-governmental Council framework since 28 May last was held on 16 August 1982 when the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry, Deputy Daly, met the Northern Ireland Office Minister of State, Mr. Adam Butler, in Derry. The discussions centred mainly on the Foyle Fisheries Commission which, as the Deputy will be aware, is responsible for protecting and improving the fisheries of the Foyle Catchment Area. The Ministers agreed that the present intensity of fishing, both legal and illegal, constituted a major threat to salmon stocks and emphasised their commitment to the elimination of poaching both in the Foyle area and off-shore.
Will the Minister agree that it is disappointing there was only one meeting of this important inter-Government council between May and today? There were five such meetings between January and May last. Would the Minister like to offer any explanation why there has been a reduction in the number of meetings, which all the time have been regarded as important from the point of view of Anglo-Irish relations? Can the Minister say if it is the intention to have a meeting in the near future between the heads of Government? The report stated that such meetings were desirable on at least one or two occasions each year.
The Deputy has been talking about the summer months. The Government remain committed to using the Anglo-Irish institutions in the spirit of constructive co-operation with Britain. Indeed, it is the view of this Government that such an approach is no less desirable now in the aftermath of the recent election in Northern Ireland. In a matter of days I hope to have a meeting with the Minister of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to discuss matters of mutual interest in relation to the European Community.
I asked if it is in the knowledge of the Minister whether it is the intention for the heads of the two Governments to meet.
That is a matter for the Taoiseach.