Seanad debates

Thursday, 29 January 2009

11:00 am

Photo of Labhrás Ó MurchúLabhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

I echo Senator O'Toole's comments regarding the Eames-Bradley report on the Troubles in Northern Ireland. The two gentlemen involved in compiling this report played a central role in finding a resolution to the Troubles. Archbishop Eames in particular never received the credit he deserved for the role he played. When the Troubles were at their height, he came forward and spoke with a moderate voice. It must have taken great courage to do so. In my opinion, his action was vital at a particular juncture during the Troubles. The position as regards Mr. Bradley is similar.

It is a pity that people had to wait until a press conference was held before they had an opportunity to express their grief, anger and other emotions. Would it be possible to request the Committee on Procedure and Privileges, CPP, to consider allowing the Seanad to play a consultative role in respect of the Eames Bradley report? When we were trying to find a way forward in the context of arriving at a solution to the Troubles, people were allowed to go before the New Ireland Forum to express their diverse views in a very controlled manner. The Seanad also played a consultative role in respect of its own reform and various individuals were allowed to appear before us to make contributions.

It is much more difficult to make peace than it is to make war. We are making peace at present and everyone has witnessed the results brought about on foot of the Good Friday Agreement. I salute everyone who has played a role in this regard. However, I am of the view that we are taking the results and benefits of the Agreement for granted and forgetting the suffering of people who lost loved ones. Even normality can exacerbate the grief individuals feel because they must continue with their lives against the background thereof.

In light of its status, I am of the view that the House might be in a position to play a consultative role and allow people to express their view. I suggest that this matter be discussed by the Government and not merely the CPP. It would be a grave injustice to the thousands who suffered as a result of the Troubles if they were to simply be ignored because progress is being made. I ask that the CPP consider this matter.

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