Dara Murphy (Cork North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As I stated, I will not be drawn into discussing the specifics of this matter which is one for the Spanish Government. However, in general, it is true that everyone is entitled to legal representation and that all of us, legal representatives and others, are subject to national law. The Deputy referred to similarities between the peace process in the North and the situation in the Basque country. I agree that similarities can be drawn between conflicts around the world, but the reality is that each conflict has specific characteristics and requirements and I would, therefore, be reticent about drawing exact parallels in this specific case. Obviously, based on the experience of the peace process in the North, the Government would support any democratic initiative proposed by the Spanish authorities that could lead to a continuation of the peace process. We very much support all efforts to bring an end to violence in all conflicts. I hope the declaration by Euskadi Ta Askatasuna, ETA, in 2011 will continue to be a very important step in that direction.

See this speech in context