Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

On the last occasion the Deputy raised this on Question Time I said I would raise it with the British Prime Minister and report back to the House again. I am not in a position to direct these things. I pointed out that there was a unanimous decision of the House and it was clearly the view of the Irish Government that there should be a public inquiry, and that I was disappointed that a QC would be appointed to examine these papers. I am not sure what will come out of this on the part of the British establishment. I met the Finucane family in Belfast and I discussed this with them. I indicated the continued support of the Government for a public inquiry into the death of Pat Finucane. I also said that, as part of that process, I would raise this in whatever discussions I have with those who matter in the United States.

It was an intergovernmental agreement between the two countries at Weston Park that whatever Judge Cory recommended would be pursued. That is why there is a unanimous decision of this House on the matter, and I was disappointed it did not happen. I cannot give directions to another government but I strongly feel this particular case, while not having any priority for those who are unfortunately deceased, was a specific case, along with the Smithwick tribunal which resulted from the other incidents, which should be followed through. From that point of view, it is a breach of something that was agreed.

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