Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Yes. I understand it has been mentioned but I do not have confirmation of it.

The British-Irish Interparliamentary Body, which is now the British Irish Parliamentary Assembly, the British-Irish Council and the North-South Ministerial Council present opportunities but we need a different sense of contact in respect of what we have to deal with here. I was a member of the British-Irish Interparliamentary Body in the beginning. The idea was that we would become acquainted with the system and the members of the House of Commons and talk about issues. It was a big success. We should also not forget the North-South Interparliamentary Association which was set up by the former Ceann Comhairle and the speaker of the Executive.

I agree with Deputy Howlin in respect of North-South dialogue. It should be inclusive and broad-ranging in everyone's interest. We are co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement. The point he makes is important. Comments about a Border poll or having a discussion about the future of the island, North and South, should not be connected or linked to an attempt to influence people's thinking in the North about an all-island situation. This is much more immediate and of profound consequence. It is important that we have access to the advice and views of the businesses and people of Northern Ireland. I do not see why we cannot have that, while not interfering in any way with the politics or priorities of the parties in Northern Ireland or down here. This is about people, North and South. I agree it should be inclusive, comprehensive and welcoming and it should allow everyone to set out their stall. Until such time as the British Government sets out its objective and its own horizon, it is difficult for Europe to respond in detail. I note in some cases that it has referred to Article 50 not being triggered until the new year. I think that might be the cause of some frustration in some European countries. The Prime Minister will make a statement when she has reflected on it.

From that point of view, I would like to speak to the leaders about my set of propositions and to have a conversation early in September. We need it then so that we can move on, build on the consensus we have and get that of our friends and colleagues in Northern Ireland, while respecting their views. It could be in everyone's interest. I will work hard on it over the next few weeks.

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