Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

It would be timely to have a debate in this House on Northern Ireland because it is very difficult for us to interact on the Order of Business on such an important issue. I recall that there was criticism in this House when the DUP emerged as the major Unionist party after the last local elections. Some of those criticisms bordered on the anti-democratic. However, if the Unionist population wishes the DUP to represent it, that is democracy. In the same way Sinn Féin emerged as the major Nationalist party in the North. What the Minister said yesterday was very balanced and unambiguous. I agree fully with Senator Mansergh that this is a very sensitive issue. There are still many elements of the peace process to be put in place. It therefore behoves us to play a positive role. I suggest not only that we have a debate soon on Northern Ireland but that we debate the issue regularly. Perhaps the Leader will consider that suggestion.