Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I hope that Sinn Féin will also devote half of its time to this issue.

Serious abuses have occurred in the case of Mr. Brendan McConville and Mr. John Paul Wootton. It was due to be started in the appeal court before the prosecution stated that it had further evidence. It now appears that the prosecution was collecting intelligence on discussions held between another witness who would confound the prosecution's evidence and his solicitor. Matters have become so serious that an application has been made to the Northern Ireland Court of Appeal to ask the Criminal Cases Review Commission to direct the police investigation, something that is possible in Northern Ireland.

When dealing with the issue of the North, it is equally important that we build relationships with the loyalist community. The politics of condemnation and keeping away from groups with which we do not agree is neither Christian nor a good way of bringing about peace. This week, I will meet representatives of the Orange Order. Last year, I visited the parade at which issues arose. I am glad that the order is willing to meet me to discuss the matter. By explaining the position from the other side, we can resolve issues. We must reassure those of different beliefs and persuasions that we can build a new Ireland, one in which respect for each community's beliefs is vital, and that we will not try to do away with traditions as long as they are followed in a way that does not threaten other communities.

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