asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs in light of the Taoiseach's response to the Duisburg talks, whether the Government can conceive of any circumstances which would justify a change in the operational practice of the Anglo-Irish Conference.
36.
Written Answers. - Duisburg (West Germany) Talks.
29.
asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has had any consultation or discussion with any of the Northern Ireland political parties involved in the talks in Duisburg in West Germany, about the talks; if, in view of the need for continued and extended talks between all democratic political parties in Northern Ireland, he intends to take any steps to encourage such dialogue; if in particular, he will clarify the remarks attributed to the Taoiseach by a spokesperson which appeared to rule out any change in the operation of the Anglo-Irish Agreement, even if progress was made between the parties in Northern Ireland towards agreement on an internal settlement; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 29 and 36 together. Neither the Taoiseach nor I have had discussions with political parties about the so-called "Duisburg Talks". The Taoiseach has made it clear however that there can be no question of a suspension of the Anglo-Irish Agreement.
The Deputy will also be aware that the Taoiseach has publicly stated on a number of occasions that he would welcome the establishment of an early dialogue, without preconditions, with the Unionist leadership.