Tom Kitt (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy's question does not relate to this CSO report, but I know there is North-South co-operation on a wide range of issues. On an earlier occasion, I replied to the Deputy about that specific issue when we were discussing tourism. I agree with him that co-ordinated work is required on matters such as tourism, especially given that Tourism Ireland is looking after the whole island. When I followed up the Deputy's earlier queries, it was confirmed to me that there is a considerable amount of co-operation on tourism and trade. As regards the CSO report entitled Measuring Ireland's Progress, we are obviously talking about our own jurisdiction. However, I will be happy to obtain more information for the Deputy in this respect, including further details on specific areas of North-South co-operation.

I agree with the Deputy that the maximum amount of co-operation is needed across the board. I have no doubt that when, hopefully, there is further political progress in the North, with the restoration of the Assembly and North-South bodies, a natural follow-up will include clear co-operation on all fronts. It would be mutually beneficial if that was done.

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