Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

I also read those comments from Unionist politicians in general. I would accept, of course, that this State has consistently been resolutely opposed to the Provisional IRA campaign, and the campaigns of others. These were militant campaigns which inflicted unnecessary violence on thousands of civilians on the island of Ireland, and which resulted in death, destruction and misery for generations of families and people.

In that context, I would ask the Taoiseach to reflect on and question how the Minister, Deputy Shatter, dealt with the Smithwick inquiry as it has given cause for concern in Unionist circles. We should never leave ourselves open to the accusation that we are short-termist or dealing with an inquiry in a certain manner that might give succour to those who want to believe certain perspectives or viewpoints in regard to the Republic or successive Governments. This is why I was very concerned about the motions that came before the House in regard to the Smithwick inquiry and the refusal to give us all the advice the judge had given to the Minister at the time, and in particular how that would play with Unionist sensitivities. It is extremely important that, from here onwards, there is not a scintilla of doubt about the independence of Smithwick from any intervention by any Minister or anybody in its deliberations and work.

With regard to the Finucane case and the need for a sworn public inquiry, I believe we are agreed in the House that this a breach of the Weston Park agreement. Fundamentally, therefore, a breakthrough can only take place between the two Governments which are signatories, with others, to that agreement. We have celebrated, if one likes, the changed nature of the relationship - the happier relationship - between Britain and Ireland. However, I suggest the fact an inquiry into the murder of Pat Finucane has not been held to date has the capacity to significantly sour and undermine that relationship, which we do not want, just as the difficulties we have had in regard to the Dublin-Monaghan bombings further erodes all the work people have put into consolidating and enhancing the relationship between the two Governments and two peoples.

A way has to be found between the two Governments at intergovernmental level in order to have this inquiry. At present, there is stalemate. The British Government is essentially setting its face against an inquiry - that is how I read it and it seems to be its position. It is a matter for the Dáil and the Government in particular to persuade the British Government to go ahead and hold such an inquiry, which is the unanimous view of Dáil Éireann.

There are a number of further points I would like to put to the Taoiseach and I would like the opportunity to come back on some of my other questions at a later stage.

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