Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1 to 8, inclusive, together.

I met an SDLP delegation led by Mark Durkan on 30 April when we discussed a number of issues focusing particularly on the prospects for political progress in Northern Ireland. My discussions with Prime Minister Blair on Sunday, 2 May focused primarily on Northern Ireland but we also had an opportunity to discuss European matters. The Prime Minister and I are determined to achieve a basis for the restoration of devolved Government in Northern Ireland as soon as possible.

The issues that must be addressed are clear. We will continue to explore all opportunities of making progress. We are intensifying our efforts and contacts with the parties. Those parties in Northern Ireland now in a position of leadership in their communities must play their part. With sufficient political will, leadership and courage, the culture of paramilitarism can be ended, trust and confidence can be restored and a democratic accommodation between Unionists and Nationalists can be secured and sustained.

I raised the Pat Finucane case with the Prime Minister. Judge Cory said that this is one of the rare cases where a public inquiry takes precedence over a prosecution. I agree with Judge Cory's views and the Government will continue to press for a public inquiry in this case as soon as possible. My discussions with the Prime Minister also touched on the report of Oireachtas Joint Committee on Justice, Equality, Defence and Women's Rights on the Barron report.

The joint statement issued after the meeting with the Prime Minister has been laid before the House. The two Governments are agreed that our shared objective is the restoration of devolved inclusive government in Northern Ireland. Over the coming weeks and months, we will work with the parties to this end and endeavour to secure delivery on the commitments needed to restore trust and confidence.

We would like to make progress in as many areas as possible before the summer break which would provide the basis on which we can resume with a positive foundation in the autumn. As I have said, the issues involved are clear. However, it is at this time premature to speculate about what may be achievable and the timeframe within which it can be achieved. In recent weeks, there have been worrying reports of an upsurge in sectarian attacks. It is important that everyone with influence in their communities does everything possible to ensure these attacks stop and tensions are reduced. Everyone appreciated the work done last year which ensured we had the most peaceful summer in many years. This work must continue and contacts be maintained at interface areas. There can be no greater confidence building between communities than people working to ensure we have peace on the streets and another peaceful summer. This would also provide a very positive context for the political process in the period ahead.

See this speech in context