Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)

What is the Taoiseach's view on the statement by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Mr. Peter Hain, that he will withdraw salaries from the MLAs? Does the Taoiseach believe that a democratic culture in Northern Ireland can be maintained if democratic representatives are deprived of a means of income? Does this go back to people who can rely on personal or other income to sustain themselves in politics? What impact would that have? Would it not inevitably lead to the collapse of the institutions? Does the measure not inevitably favour a well-resourced party with a large number of MPs in the House of Commons, such as the DUP, for example? Can the Taoiseach persist in trying to establish normal politics in Northern Ireland if the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland goes ahead with that decision?

Has the Taoiseach had an opportunity to read the proposals published yesterday by the SDLP for improved North-South co-operation and does he have an initial response to them?

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