Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I agree entirely with An Tánaiste that the Parades Commission has to be supported by both Governments and every member of the community in Northern Ireland. A clear message must go out to everybody in Northern Ireland that the Parades Commission can only continue in its vitally important work if it is not second-guessed, especially by public representatives who have a responsibility to be leaders in their community. No strand of political opinion can be allowed to undermine determinations that have legal status.

I am familiar with officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the commitment, effort and knowledge they bring to their work with local communities. I am sure they are very active. A recent report indicated the concerns of Dolores Kelly, MLA, about the starting point for a parade in the Garvaghy Road area on 8 June. The clear message must again go out that the Government and the British Government will not tolerate any strand of political opinion second-guessing the Parades Commission or not giving their full support. The stability of society in Northern Ireland and the welfare of citizens is much too important to be second-guessed by people who do not like particular determinations on certain dates.

See this speech in context