Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Chair. On the last issue, I am sure the committee could lend its support. There was a very successful launch of the bid to stage the Rugby World Cup with the full support of all the party leaders in the North and the South. It is a very exciting opportunity and I think if the Chair were to lend his support by contacting the IRFU, it would be most helpful.

I get a sense from the meeting that the cross-Border smuggling issue is one of great importance to the Chair and the members of the committee. I believe that the Minister for Justice and Equality would be happy to accept an invitation from the Chairman on behalf of the committee, notwithstanding her very busy agenda with legislation and other duties, but perhaps an update from her would be appropriate. In any event, I will convey the very strong views of this committee to her at an early opportunity. I know she is in direct regular contact with her counterpart, Mr. Ford. I urge everyone to invite their constituents to provide any information to the appropriate authorities. I know Border Deputies do this regularly. This is a real and serious issue and I condemn the recent attacks on individuals in south Armagh which are directly linked to cross-Border smuggling. It is unacceptable and it is important that every effort be made to deal actively with the issue.

The stocktake report the Chairman mentioned was published in November 2014.

It offers an opportunity to create an environment free of conflict in Maghaberry Prison. I met interested parties, including those involved in drawing up the stocktake report. I urge Members in this committee and beyond to continue contacting the stakeholders. The Northern Ireland Prison Service has committed to implementing the recommendations. I hope this will happen at an early date, but it is an issue I am monitoring closely.

On the matter of the possible departure by the UK from the EU, there would be consequences for Northern Ireland. The preferred course of action is for the UK to remain firmly within the EU. However, the matter is the subject of debate in the UK general election. Let us wait and see the shape of the new Government. I would be happy to report back to the committee. As part of the committee's remit, I invite it to examine papers that have been published on this issue. I assure it that our Government is keeping a close eye on the situation.