Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

We cannot be sure what loyalists may do in the future. However, in every way possible we will keep the contacts we have established. We have some and we will not overstate that, but we try to keep lines of communications open. Some relatively good contacts have been built up, including recently. Precisely what way the loyalists will go is a matter to leave for some time. There is a debate as to where all this will go. The more progress that can be built on the events of last week and July, the better.

We must understand there is a sense of alienation in many of these communities. Regardless of what flag is flying in an estate, loyalist or Nationalist, the problems are similar. We must seek to be helpful and supportive in every way. The Minister for Foreign Affairs, myself and officials on the ground always try to balance whatever we do because it is the best way to make progress. As the Deputy rightly said, we have been monitoring the situation closely in some loyalist areas. The recent upsurge of violence has been a setback, tarnishing the positive image of Northern Ireland. However, there is no question of people returning to violence. Some of it comes from fears or concerns. Perhaps it is felt it is the only way to get a response. We must continue to ensure it is understood that it is not acceptable.

We must also condemn attacks from the other side, such as those on Dr. Paisley's church on the Ravenhill road. While not receiving much publicity, it has been brought to my attention that several Orange Order halls in County Antrim have been attacked. These must be condemned while, at the same time, we must work to make political progress. Some loyalists feel they have been alienated. We must continue to point out that the Good Friday Agreement is about restoring institutions. We should not wait until the second IMC report is published in January to restore institutions. We must continue to work and make the effort between now and then.

The British Prime Minister, Mr. Blair, and I will be active in doing this over the next several weeks. We must wait to see how we can build on recent events. I have, as well as Mr. Blair, scheduled meetings and we will both meet to see how we can plot a path forward until the second IMC report in January.

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