Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I can ask Mr. Stephens. I know he cannot speak at this meeting but there is no reason the committee cannot do that, or, indeed, write to all MPs who, like Ms Gildernew, have a voice in the British Parliament. It is a matter for each MP to use his or her voice. The reality is that if one wants to stop a vote in a parliament, and one has a seat in that parliament, there is a clear way to do that, or try to do it, and that is to go in and vote, if the issue is big enough. I appreciate that different parties have different views. That was my personal comment on the matter. I have no issue with supporting writing to whomever the committee wishes. Mr. Stephens will be more than happy to consult with members after the meeting and send around a draft letter that people will be happy with. We will send that letter post-haste, if that is acceptable.