I propose to take Questions Nos. 5 to 9, inclusive, together.
I had a meeting with Sinn Féin on Thursday, 23 April and again on Friday, 1 May. We discussed follow-up to the Multi-Party Agreement, with particular reference to the referenda on 22 May. We did not discuss the issue of the disappeared on these occasions. I have repeatedly made clear to the republican movement my views and feeling on this matter. I will continue to do so.
I also met over the weekend with Prime Minister Blair. He and I discussed the positive reaction to the Multi-Party Agreement and how best to maximise the support for it in the forthcoming referenda. The Prime Minister and I remain fully committed to doing whatever is necessary to ensure the success of the process. I have no plans to visit Northern Ireland in the near future but I will avail of any suitable opportunities as they arise.
The Government's primary objective is to maximise the support of the people for the Multi-Party Agreement. Once the referenda have passed, implementation of the State's commitments arising from the Good Friday Agreement will be closely overseen by the Government, particularly the Ministers most closely concerned, that is myself and the Ministers for Foreign Affairs and Justice, Equality and Law Reform. Officials of all relevant Departments are already focused on the issues. There are specific timescales for particular matters set out on the Agreement and these must and will be adhered to.
In relation to specific steps being taken to demonstrate its respect for the different traditions on the island, I remind the Deputy of the Government's commitment in relation to the First World War Memorial at Messines in Belgium and of the interdepartmental committee, chaired by the Department of Foreign Affairs, which is examining the development of the site at the Battle of the Boyne. It is envisaged that concrete steps will be taken on foot of both these initiatives within the short term. The scope for further steps is being considered in a positive spirit.
Distribution of copies of the Good Friday Agreement to households throughout the country is progressing well. Some 1.4 million copies have been printed. Distribution began on Tuesday, 28 April and will be completed by Friday, 15 May at the latest.