Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister of State. Is he aware of a front page article that appeared in the Irish Echo regarding a statement by one of the new Representatives from the Republican Party elected to Congress to the effect that he proposes to table a Bill to abolish this fund? The piece contains several apparently contradictory quotes, including a statement from the ambassador to Washington. As the Minister of State will appreciate, this is causing some alarm as to the level of confusion as to what is the exact position of the Irish Government or, as the Minister of State noted, of the British Government. Is the Government aware of this threat that the fund could be wound up fairly quickly, particularly because of the change of responsibility in the House of Representatives? This matter should be carefully discussed and I ask the Minister of State whether Ireland, through diplomatic channels, stresses the ongoing need for support, especially in view of the recent unfortunate rise in subversive activities by dissident groups in Northern Ireland. If it was to be wound up, would aid continue to be provided, such as through the George Mitchell scholarship fund or another programme which could be of benefit to Northern Ireland? I understand that approximately $50 million is contributed each year by the US Government. Perhaps the Minister can confirm that.

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