Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

I will concentrate on two issues. I find it incredible that the Taoiseach did not raise the question of the interest rate on the bilateral loan with Great Britain. I simply want to ask the Taoiseach why he did not raise the possibility of a reduction. Given that we are raising this issue across Europe - there is a consistency between the two matters - it would seem like a logical thing to do. If our near neighbours were to respond to our request to reduce the interest rate, it would send a strong signal. Can the Taoiseach tell the House why he did not pursue this specific bilateral issue with Britain?

I would like to refer to the Taoiseach's comments on the inquiry into the Dublin and Monaghan bombings. I must say I am very disappointed with the response. In his original reply, the Taoiseach said - he can correct me if I am wrong - that the British Prime Minister told him the British authorities have supplied all the information they intend to supply. That means "no", basically.

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