Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am aware the Deputy’s party is represented at the talks and I wish to acknowledge the contribution of Martin McGuinness and his team in that regard.

The current talks process offers an opportunity for all of us, the governments and the political parties, to agree a comprehensive approach which sees us working collectively to achieve a society free from the shadow of paramilitary activity. While significant challenges remain, I am hopeful that with committed collective engagement, we can make real progress in the coming days on the issues raised by Deputy Crowe and others.

We are currently debating the contents of the Stormont House Agreement Bill. I believe that and other areas are moving to a stage where we can, hopefully, be in a position to reach agreement shortly. An agreed outcome would be an important step forward, not just for political parties but for everyone in Northern Ireland. I urge Deputy Crowe and his colleagues to continue their positive engagement.

See this speech in context