Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

May is the deadline for the transfer of policing and justice powers from the British Government in London to the Executive in Belfast. We are in the last few days in May. I welcome the Taoiseach's statement that the time is now right for the transfer of these powers, with which I fully concur. Is the Taoiseach aware the setting of a clear and realisable date for the transfer of these powers was crucial in winning nationalist republican support for engagement with the new policing structures in the North? In light of all of that and all that depends upon the delivery of commitments entered into under both agreements, what steps does he propose to take to help ensure the transfer of these powers proceeds over the remaining time, particularly given that there will be shortly a transfer of responsibility from the current First Minister to the First Minister designate, Peter Robinson? Will the transfer happen prior to the departure of Dr. Paisley? How soon after the taking up of office by Peter Robinson does the Taoiseach expect these powers to be transferred?

See this speech in context