Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The answer is “Yes”. The Tánaiste was in direct contact with the Secretary of State, Ms Villiers, on the matter and the Minister of Justice in Northern Ireland, Mr. Ford. Everybody agrees with the sentiment Deputy Adams expressed that there should be harmony and community peace in Northern Ireland.

On the morning of the recent North-South Ministerial Council in Dublin Castle the Orange Order issued a statement saying it wished to engage with communities in the Ardoyne about the parade and the issues that might arise. Clearly, the Government supports the role and the remit of the Parades Commission and the PSNI, which has been under serious pressure in carrying out its duties in terms of maintaining peace and community cohesion.

The Orange Order addressed the Seanad last year and made its comments. I met it myself. Clearly, Deputy Adams will not find anyone in disagreement with the sentiment he expressed in the House. All we can do is reinforce the message by continued direct contact with the representatives of the British Government and of the political parties. I am also aware of the comments made by Vice President Biden. Everyone is now aware of the appointment of Richard Haass, the experienced special envoy, to chair the work dealing with parades, protests, flags, symbols and emblems dealing with the past. Those are serious issues. I saw some of the television pictures of naked sectarianism at work and it is not a pretty sight.

This House should unite in its call to all the communities to show restraint. This is not good for Northern Ireland, its reputation and the perception of the people of Northern Ireland. Following on the successful G8 summit where the reputation of Northern Ireland and its people was greatly enhanced this does down the economy, in particular of Belfast, and it also does down the reputation of community efforts to have cross-community peace and harmony. In so far as sending out that message is concerned, we will reinforce it very strongly and will continue our contacts directly with the British Government and the representatives of the people in all of the parties.

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