Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

There was not any particular reason for not visiting Northern Ireland since October. The visit is planned for November and I hope to undertake a number of engagements. I appreciate the Deputy's comment in respect of the effective working of the Assembly.

I spoke with the Prime Minister by telephone when he was to meet with the Finucane family. His view was he wanted to get at the truth and to issue an apology to the Finucane family. He said that his preferred method now was to appoint a QC. I reminded him in that telephone conversation that this House had passed a unanimous motion calling for a full public inquiry in the Finucane case and that this was still our view. I said that unless the Finucane family were happy with what was being offered, that remained our view. I reminded him of this view on Sunday in a brief conversation with him.

It is true that following the recommendations of Judge Cory that there should be inquiries into certain matters, this House followed through by establishing the Smithwick inquiry. It remains my view that the same should apply in the case of Pat Finucane, unless the family were to agree otherwise. They do not so agree so there is no change in the position of this House or of the Government in regard to having a full public inquiry into the death of Pat Finucane.

See this speech in context