Don Lydon (Fianna Fail)

Following the visit by President Bush to Europe this week, I ask the Leader to organise a debate on the defence implications of the new Europe, its alliance with NATO and so on. I have my own views on this while others have different views, but it would be timely to have this debate before we discuss the new constitution.

I would like to comment on the ongoing IRA activity, which we all abhor. At one level, perhaps one could understand why this organisation came into being, but not why it continues. It seems to be fostered by the reluctance of the British authorities to co-operate on the Dublin and Monaghan bombings. We also see the same with the Pat Finucane case, which is another case of obfuscation. I call on the British authorities to co-operate in both of these investigations. By doing so, we remove a reason for the IRA to continue to exist. That is very important to all of us.