Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. O'Connor and the other members of the delegation for their thought-provoking contributions. We understand their loud sense of frustration. Perhaps I would differ in so far as I would not share the sense that things have not progressed in the past 15 years. Although obvious challenges are being faced at the moment, a great deal of movement has been made in Northern Ireland in the last 15 years.

The bill of rights issue is dominating our radar. The commission that was established by the UK Government could not reach consensus on a pan-British basis for Wales, Northern Ireland or Scotland. There was a sense from the commission that a bill of rights for Northern Ireland needs to operate as a distinct entity.

While I take Mr. O'Connor's point about the extent to which one can be committed to something, I emphasise that the Irish Government is committed to this. Obviously, there is a need to evaluate that commitment continually. I will use my office to ensure the Taoiseach knows we have had this meeting when he meets David Cameron on 11 March. Formal correspondence on this matter will be issued on foot of today's meeting.

I have listened to various contributions. Paul Maskey made the point that there are other voices out there. This committee tries to act as an honest broker. When there are divergent views, as in this case, it might be helpful to hear them. Deputy Crowe mentioned that he is baffled about why this issue is not being resolved. We need to hear divergent views. Our committee will try to assist by pursuing this issue as an honest broker. We are committed to it. It is an integral part of the Good Friday Agreement. We appreciate the contributions that have been made today.