Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

I support the call by Senator Cummins for a debate on Northern Ireland, as was mentioned on the Order of Business yesterday. Over the years we have had some very significant debates on this issue but they were permeated by a sense of hopelessness and helplessness. I wish Dr. Paisley well in his retirement. Over the years I found little to agree with in what he said but in latter times he has shown himself to be a fine leader. Even though we did disagree with him, I always felt he had a moral focus. He believed what he was saying. He was transparent to the extent that one knew what was in his mind. I often feel that public debate would be the richer if everybody could be so transparent.

Many people are stunned by the progress that has been made in Northern Ireland. The peace process has been so successful, and in such a short time, that people are perhaps taking it for granted. As people are jockeying for position in the new set-up in Northern Ireland there is a grave danger that new agendas will be promoted. We must be vigilant about this and keep in touch with what is going on. We must continue the interaction we have had and cultivate the respect that has been developed among all traditions on this island in recent years. We cannot take anything for granted.

A comprehensive debate is important. It would be different from previous debates in that we would be dealing not just with the reality of the current situation but with the huge potential for the future. The Seanad, in particular, must play a central role in this regard.