Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

With regard to the North-South parliamentary body it is not true to state there has been no progress. The Ceann Comhairle and the Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly, Mr. Willie Hay, are to be commended for the efforts they are making to ensure contacts between the two institutions are encouraged. Visits have taken place both ways. This is gaining its own momentum with the agreement of all and we should leave it to the Ceann Comhairle and the Speaker to lead the process on behalf of us all.

On this side of the Border we would like to have seen this North-South parliamentary forum well established by now. Obviously we must work with everybody and all sensitivities must be recognised and understood. I believe there is much good will and good faith in the efforts being made. I hope in due time we will see the establishment of such a body.

The British Irish Interparliamentary Body was established in the 1980s and I was a member of its first configuration. I believe it served a very good role, not only with regard to individual relations between politicians from both Parliaments but the subject matter of discussions also helped people gain a perspective and understanding of other points of view. It built a basis of trust and dissipated suspicion and prejudices which people may have had in the past in terms of the role both countries could play in seeking to resolve conflict and be seen to work co-operatively in many areas by emphasising that we have far more in common than what separated us in many respects. Similarly, a North-South parliamentary body has the potential to clear away much of the fog and misconceptions which only personal relationships can help dispel.

Many in this House have the skills to assist in this process of practical reconciliation which should never be underestimated in the context of the political dynamic of the country. I hope the efforts of the Ceann Comhairle and the Speaker working together will bring about such an outcome. It has much potential for good. It will not change the paradigm and no one suggests it will do the devil and all, but it will be an important step forward in the relationship between both sides of the Border.

With regard to reconfigurations of the Executive, strand one issues are for the parties in Northern Ireland. The format agreed to and which forms part of the Good Friday Agreement emphasises the need for inclusivity and representation. The question of mandatory coalitions and coalitions necessary in a divided society should not be underestimated. The question of representation and the fullest possible participation by parties in the Assembly in the Executive functions of Northern Ireland's affairs would be good in terms of embedding the progress we have seen thus far and ensuring the change is irreversible.

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