Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)

I am glad to hear the Taoiseach sound a positive note in respect of the potential afforded by North-South co-operation. I note from the communique from the North-South Ministerial Council meeting that issues around the economy, the eurozone crisis and fiscal developments were discussed. In these challenging times when money is tight with the ongoing air of uncertainty internationally, it is a no-brainer and makes perfect sense for us, North and South, to maximise areas of co-operation including the potential for inward investment. It is welcome the contacts the Government has made in China will be made available to the First Minister and Deputy First Minister. We need, however, at some stage to be talking about joint delegations and missions as we are looking for investment into a small country and a small island. We have yet to reap the benefits of deep co-operation on issues such as that.

The Taoiseach referred to corporation tax in his response to Deputy Martin. What is the Government's position in respect of the devolution of fiscal powers for the Northern Executive and Assembly? I note the Taoiseach's comments on the north-west gateway initiative which, when up and running, will be a win-win on both sides of the Border. As he outlined a commitment to the N2-A5 road project, albeit a diminished one, when does he envisage it to be completed?

I too have a sense of treading water on the matter of the North-South implementation bodies. It has been signalled and discussed for a long time but we have yet to see any result in respect of those deliberations. How does the Taoiseach see these expanded upon or rebooted? Which new bodies should be appropriately established?

We welcome any progress made in respect of the North-South parliamentary forum. I am aware the Ceann Comhairle and the Speaker of the Assembly are in contact on this matter. However, this has been a long time in the making. At some stage we need to see it established. Whereas no one would expect the Taoiseach to interfere, he is the Head of Government. Will he reassure us he is giving impetus and direction to the matter? We should not forget the North-South consultative forum. Will the Taoiseach comment on that too?

The Taoiseach was due to travel to the Six Counties in June. Is that still the case? If so, will he confirm that he will meet with the Ballymurphy families? We have raised this matter with the Taoiseach several times and they are anxious to meet him. They were themselves to travel to Dublin to facilitate such a meeting but I understand he was not keen on a Dublin meeting. Is he heading to the North in June and will he give a commitment to meet the Ballymurphy families?

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