Vol. 420 No. 3
50 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has plans for any new initiatives in the Anglo Irish context in view of the appointment of a new Northern Ireland Secretary and other political developments; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Government are currently involved in a process of political talks whose object is to achieve a new beginning for relationships within Northern Ireland, within the island of Ireland and between the peoples of these islands.
In our contacts with the new British Government, we have made clear the high priority which we attach to the search for political progress in relation to Northern Ireland. Our purpose in entering these talks is to pursue a comprehensive political settlement based upon the three sets of relationships involved and capable of bringing lasting peace, stability and prosperity to this island. It is our earnest hope that, with a sufficiently open, constructive and forward-looking approach on the part of all participants, this objective may be realised.
