Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

This provision is not as satisfactory as we would want. I would like to remember the name of David Ervine because we did not have an opportunity to speak about him in this House since his death.

In respect of the comments the Taoiseach had with the British Prime Minister, what did Tony Blair say about the O'Loan report? Was he as shocked as the Taoiseach was at its findings? Given that the British Government did not co-operate fully in respect of the Barron inquiry, was there any outcome to the Taoiseach's comments to him about that? As Deputy Rabbitte said, did he reflect on the position of Ronnie Flanagan arising from that report?

I listened to the Taoiseach's comments in respect of the elections and I hope that this process goes through. However, Mr. Willie McCrea MP expressed a slightly different view this morning and time is relatively short. Under what circumstances would plan B be activated by the Government? When would the Taoiseach be in a position to know? Following discussions with the SDLP today, I know its members believe that the British Government could withdraw from the electoral process that is under way and cancel the elections.

I agree with the Taoiseach there should be certainty in this regard. Is he absolutely satisfied that the process is irrevocable, in the sense that it will happen and that the elections will take place? Alternatively, will there be a sham and a charade, in which although an election has been called and a process is under way, for some reason the Government that has called the election will then call it off? The Taoiseach might comment on this matter.

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