Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

Does the Taoiseach agree there has been a surprising lack of engagement by Ministers with their counterparts in the North in the three months since the appointment of the Government? One cannot present informal and brief meetings as substantive engagements. It is accepted that in order to ensure we cement the advances of recent years it is important there be regular, formal substantive meetings, as well as informal meetings, between Ministers.

There has been a failure to consult in regard to the decision to close down the Smithwick tribunal. I understand the Minister for Justice and Equality is bringing forward measures in this regard. The Unionist parties have already expressed their disquiet at the failure to consult them on the closing down of the tribunal. Will the Taoiseach suspend any measures until the North-South Ministerial Council has had an opportunity to discuss them at its upcoming meeting? It is a very sensitive issue in terms of perceptions and it is important that it is handled sensitively and appropriately given the seriousness of the issues that are covered by the tribunal. It is important that regular contact occurs to avoid any misconceptions arising.

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