Gerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I will deal with Teachta Martin's really misinformed and deliberate misrepresentation of what is happening in the North at some other time. I welcome the Taoiseach's efforts to refocus the British Government on the peace process and on what needs to be done in the North. I especially welcome the convening of a group of senior civil servants who will be charged with knuckling down and dealing with this matter. The group in question must work with the Executive and with all of the parties in order to ensure that there will be delivery in respect of certain matters. There are other matters which are very much the responsibility of the British Government and which have not been delivered upon. Regardless of the other pressing issues on the Government's agenda - I accept that these are difficult times - it is crucial that the peace process receive regular attention and be treated as a continuing priority. It is particularly important that the concerns of all sections of society in the North - not just those of republicans or Nationalists - in respect of identity, equality and symbols should be dealt with. Equality must be the foundation of what we do, across the island and, at this time, in the Six Counties in particular. Unionists and loyalists must, like the rest of us, be mindful of our abiding commitment to uphold their rights and entitlements on the basis of equality.

Teachta Ó Snodaigh also visited Marian Price and he furnished the Taoiseach with a written report relating thereto. Ms Price and Martin Corey should not be in prison. Sinn Féin made representations to the parole hearing and was informed that these two individuals would be a threat to the peace process if released. I wish to state on the record of the Dáil that they would not be a threat to the peace process if released. Their detention is actually the threat to the peace process. Ms Price and Mr. Corey are a threat to the peace process as a result of the circumstances in which they are illegally detained. I look to the Government to raise this issue in the United States and also with the British authorities before the review of their detention concludes. The last thing we want is a judgment handed down by a kangaroo court to the effect that Ms Price will be held in detention for ever and a day. She and Martin Corey need to be released.

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