Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I also ask the Leader to extend the House's congratulations to Commissioner Noel Conroy for the extraordinary work he has done. I recall saying on the occasion of his appointment that he would do us proud. His record is substantial, both on the ground and in management, and he has proved himself over the past while.

We had a debate on Northern Ireland a couple of weeks ago. One of the issues that arose then was the shape of political reality for the future. The only difference of opinion that emerged was whether it would be a year, two years or more than four years before any political progress was made. The events that have occurred in the meantime have clearly set back the likelihood of political progress. I would like another debate immediately on the Northern Ireland situation, but it should not be about Sinn Féin or the IRA, or even the rights or wrongs of democracy. It is clear we are all in agreement on these matters. The Government has acted well and correctly in this regard.

I would like to hear proposals from Members of the House as regards how the peace process can be moved on to the next stage. I do not believe that to bring back the forum, which I support, will create the required political initiative. As I have said previously, the only way to create the political initiative is to deepen community involvement, North-South and east-west. New issues must be examined that politicians can become involved with, such as economic, social and professional issues as well as issues of disadvantage, so we can find out how processes and approaches on both islands may be merged and maintained. This is the way forward.

More than anything else I want a debate on these issues where Members are confined in their speeches to proposals and no one repeats what he or she previously said. The newspapers have been tedious over the past few days. It is the same story over and over. It is important that these matters are reported, but I want to hear what proposals Members have. We are elected public representatives and everybody should have some idea on how to move matters forward. Senator Brian Hayes has suggested we begin by bringing back the Forum for Peace and Reconciliation. That is a positive suggestion, but we have to look way beyond that move. No progress will be made if it is kept only at the level of elected politicians. Elected representatives have to do the talking, create a direction and make it happen.