Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

There is no change in our position in regard to Taiwan. We acknowledge, as we have done through the decades, China's position in regard to Taiwan. I reiterated Ireland's and the European Union's consistent "one China" policy. Equally, we maintain the EU's interest in maintaining links with Taiwan in non-political fields consistent with the "one China" policy. I stressed the importance of constructive dialogue between Beijing and Taipei in the peaceful resolution of the Taiwan question.

In reply to Deputy Rabbitte, I have not spoken with President Bush but I sent him a message of congratulations following his re-election. Following the election, I spoke to his ambassador and to John Snow, Treasury Secretary, and conveyed to him my congratulations.

The arrangements for St. Patrick's Day are at a preliminary stage. I have said that I do not believe the politics of exclusion will serve any useful purpose. I would prefer people to confront issues and make known their views. President Bush, just as President Clinton before him, has been very helpful to the northern process. Both of them have been very forthright, which is helpful. I would prefer not to exclude people. However, I cannot be sure that President Bush will not take a different view.

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