asked the Taoiseach if he will raise the case of the Birmingham Six and the Guildford Four at his next meeting with the British Prime Minister; and the lack of progress in the Guildford case.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Birmingham Six and Guildford Four.
8.
It is not the practice to outline the subjects to be discussed at such meetings. I would, however, like to assure the House of the Government's deep concern about the cases referred to in the question. The Minister for Foreign Affairs has been in contact with the British Home Secretary and will continue to make representations when necessary on behalf of the persons involved.
Does the Taoiseach agree that the low-key approach adopted by the previous Government has been ineffective and has failed to get any progress in the case of the Guildford Four and only very dubious progress, if that is the correct term, in the case of the Birmingham Six? Does he feel that a more firm and direct approach to the British Government and to the British Prime Minister is now essential if the tragedy of these prisoners is not to be prolonged?
I am aware that a number of Deputies in the House in their capacity as Deputies have been quite assiduous and determined in following up this issue, and I would like to pay tribute also to a number of individuals in Britain, politicians and others, who have also shown great interest in endeavouring to have this situation resolved. I think it is better not to be partisan in our approach but rather to endeavour to ensure that all possible influence is mobilised to ensure that the cases are dealt with and the injustices are resolved as soon as possible.
Is it intended that the Government be represented at the hearing by way of review of the case of the Birmingham Six scheduled for November next?
It would be desirable that we would have an observer presence there.
I know that the Taoiseach is probably aware that following the recent Anglo-Irish Parliamentarians exchange, a number of Deputies from this House visited the Birmingham Six in Longlartin, largely at the initiative of Deputy David Andrews. One of the requests made by the Birmingham Six was that they should, if not allowed out on bail between now and November, at least be allowed for family reasons to transfer back to the prisons from which they originally came. Will the Taoiseach convey that request through the most appropriate channel open to him, with a view to having it acceded to.
I will be glad to do that.
A final question from Deputy Gregory, please.
Will the Taoiseach clarify whether or not he is prepared to take a direct involvement in this case? I gather from the replies given, that he is not. Will the Taoiseach involve himself directly and raise it with the British Prime Minister.
I assure the Deputy that I have a very deep personal interest in this case, an interest which I took when I was in Opposition. I will certainly continue to take a personal interest in having this matter resolved because it has very important implications for the whole process of Anglo-Irish relations. At this stage my contribution can be best made in consultation with my colleague, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, who has specific responsibility in the area. Between us, the Deputy can be assured, we will make every possible effort to have the matters resolved.
A Cheann Comhairle——
I have indicated that I am passing on to the next question.