Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Glacaim buíochas leis an Teachta as ucht freastal ar an fhóram dhomhanda faoi eacnamaíocht na hÉireann agus, go deimhin, chuir sé cúpla ceist phráinneach agus oiriúnach ag an chomhdháil

I spoke to the British Prime Minister this morning who contacted me about his meeting with the Finucane family. He indicated to me it was his intention to get to the truth of this matter as quickly as possible and issue an apology in respect of the death of Pat Finucane. I indicated to him it is one of the few issues in the House on which there was all-party agreement that there should be an inquiry, following the initial findings of Judge Peter Cory and the Weston Park agreement. He informed me of the nature of what he proposed to say to the Finucane family. I indicated to him that the House unanimously supported Geraldine Finucane in her search for the truth and the issues surrounding the death of her husband, Pat.

When the meeting concluded the Prime Minister's office informed the Department of the Taoiseach of the outcome. I understand it was not satisfactory for the Finucane family. I have not changed my view in respect of this issue. All parties in the House unanimously called for an inquiry based on the findings of Judge Peter Cory and the wishes of the family. That is the position.

I indicated quite clearly to the Prime Minister that if Geraldine Finucane was not happy with what was on offer we would not be happy either. I respected his wish to say that what is needed is the truth and an apology arising from the message from the office of the Prime Minister. I spoke with the Tánaiste who will, in due course, invite Geraldine Finucane and her family to the House for a discussion on the meeting and where we go from here.

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