Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

With regard to the visit of Queen Elizabeth ll, I agree with the Taoiseach's observation that it was an historic occasion which reflected very well on the country and on all involved in the organisation and facilitation of the visit. It illustrated the transformation of relationships between Ireland and Great Britain and between people of different traditions on the island of Ireland. Would the Taoiseach agree the gardaí, in particular, with the Defence Forces did an excellent job and stopped a tiny minority from spoiling an event which commanded almost universal support from our people, as was evidenced on the streets of Cork last Friday where there was a genuinely warm welcome? Would the Taoiseach agree his predecessor, the former Taoiseach Mr. Brian Cowen, deserves some credit for facilitating and agreeing to this historic visit while in office and that it was a testament to his commitment to building relations between Great Britain and Ireland?

At his meeting last week with the Prime Minister, Mr. David Cameron, did the Taoiseach raise the filling of the vacant IMF post? It is reported that strong support is emerging for the candidacy of Christine Lagarde, with the support of the United Kingdom. I can understand the position of the Government with regard to that appointment. However, it is important that we make it clear that the policies on corporation tax that she may have adopted as a French finance minister, should not be reflected if she were to become managing director of the IMF. That would be important in terms of the IMF's historical position of wanting a sustainable recovery package and a sustainable financing package for Ireland.

Can the Taoiseach elaborate on the nature of his discussion with the Prime Minister on the Dublin and Monaghan bombings and the Prime Minister's response, specifically to the issue of releasing the files? There can be no justification for continuing to cover up these files.

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