It is proposed to take No. 12, statements on the communiqué issued after the meeting between the Taoiseach and the British Prime Minister.
Order of Business.
There is nothing to put to the House.
Later in the debate today Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív will report on his visit to republican prisoners in the United Kingdom. As I cannot raise that issue on the Order of Business it would be worth listening to what he has to say. I asked the Taoiseach on Tuesday last if he would avail of the next opportunity to raise the case of prisoner Paddy Kelly with the British Government. Can the Tánaiste give us some information on him as his health is deteriorating rapidly? It is an important matter and on humanitarian grounds he should be transferred to this country. In fact, he should be in hospital.
I am very anxious to assist the Deputy in this important matter but the Chair is also concerned about procedure at this time to which he is obliged to conform.
I am sure the Deputy is aware that we have taken the opportunity to raise the case of prisoners and, indeed, Mr. Kelly, on many occasions and will continue to do so. My understanding is that the papers are in order and hopefully that transfer can take place.
I support what Deputy Ahern has said. On humanitarian grounds Patrick Kelly should be transferred back and I know that is the position of the Irish Government. I hope in the light of the joint communiqué and the new understanding between the British and Irish Governments we will see some common sense in relation to this issue. It would be counterproductive if, after all the work that has been done since 9 February, this matter was not dealt with urgently.
Now that the Tánaiste has returned from London can he give us a date for the publication of the White Paper?
I recall the House being informed on Tuesday of this week that the White Paper would be published very shortly.
When is the Government likely to sanction the voluntary early retirement package for the Defence Forces?
That is a question that might be tabled appropriately.
On an unrelated matter, will the Tánaiste confirm, considering the day that is in it, if the Minister for the Environment has received a proposal from the Princess of Wales this morning?
I join my colleagues in supporting the request for action on Irish prisoners in Britain. I am not sure if this is the best format in which to raise the matter of the rota for questions. I understand from the rota I have received that a date is to be set aside for questions on the Gaeltacht which has not been covered previously. A Cheann Comhairle, is this a matter on which you can offer advice?
The Deputy might communicate with my office in respect of that matter.
Not being represented by the Whips it is difficult for me to know the correct format.