Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

I must point out, it is not a precedent for the Government to always discuss matters with the leaders of the Opposition. I will advise the Minister for Foreign Affairs of their anxiety to be fully briefed. I assume that in the normal circumstances if he can afford them that opportunity, he will do so. However, I cannot pre-empt the discussions that are taking place with the Taoiseach and the Heads of State. As Members know, the Taoiseach is anxious, prior to the meeting next week, that he would be afforded a longer opportunity to brief his counterparts before the discussion that takes place in Brussels during the week.

On the other issues, one is in process and I will not discuss it. The other issue is outside the auspices of the Order of Business.

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