Proinsias De Rossa
Ceist:9 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Taoiseach if Anglo-Irish relations were discussed at his meeting with the British Prime Minister in London on 20 April, 1990; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Anglo-Irish Relations.
Dick Spring
Ceist:10 Mr. Spring asked the Taoiseach if he will make a statement regarding his meeting with the British Prime Minister in London on 20 April 1990 in so far as Anglo-Irish relations are concerned.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 9 and 10 together.
The primary purpose of my meeting with the British Prime Minister was to have an exchange of views with her on the issues which were subsequently considered at last Saturday's special European Council meeting in Dublin. Deputies will be aware that, as President of the European Council, I had similar meetings with all the other EC leaders. I also had a short exchange of views with the British Prime Minister on current matters in Anglo-Irish relations,
Could the Taoiseach outline the issues that he refers to and the response of the Prime Minister to them? I presume he is referring to the questions of extradition, Articles 2 and 3, and the claim in relation to Northern Ireland.
Strictly speaking, I think Protocol compels me to do no more than refer the Deputy to the joint statement that was issued after the meeting. That is the customary practice.
Could I ask the Taoiseach, in relation to his discussions with Mrs. Thatcher, if any talks were held in relation to the potential for talks between the constitutional parties in Northern Ireland and if he can inform us, the elected Members of the House, if there are any developments in that area?
In my meeting with the British Prime Minister it was just referred to in passing. We did not go into any details on it. We just hope that something important will emerge.
Is it not the case that the Taoiseach said at the press conference after the meeting that he would be prepared to consider any representations that might be made in regard to deficiencies in the operation of the Irish extradition legislation? Would he indicate if his statement on that occasion is consistent with statements subsequently made in the House by the Minister for Justice last week, which seem to indicate the opposite?
The Minister for Justice and myself are in complete agreement on this matter.
You seem to be saying different things.
No.
I think the record will indicate that that is so.
I am sorry if it appears that way to the Deputy.
If representations are made to the Taoiseach, is he prepared to consider changes in the existing extradition arrangements, particularly in view of the possible plea by people accused of political motivation murder.
It is always my duty to consider any serious representations made to me on any matter of public interest. As of now I do not intend to institute any changes in the extradition arrangements.
Were representations made to the Taoiseach in this matter by the British Prime Minister?
No.