Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

First, I wish to take this opportunity to compliment Archbishop Diarmuid Martin on his contribution on "The Frontline" television programme last night, which I thought was very reasoned and compassionate. This was evident from the atmosphere in the audience and the decorum that existed. I also compliment Pat Kenny on the manner in which he handled it, because there were lessons to be learned from last night's programme. Members also have lessons to learn, which are that it does not matter what diverse views one may have in a debate or whether it takes place in a television studio, this Chamber or anywhere else but it should be possible to conduct any dialogue and debate without heckling and shouting. If one's opinion is genuinely held and strong enough, it should be sufficient simply to be part of whatever discussion is going on.

On another point, I believe the current loyalist violence in the North serves as a reminder to us all of how fragile the peace process can be in certain circumstances. I acknowledge it is not representative of the views which are held throughout Northern Ireland but we have become a little complacent ourselves. A lot of time, goodwill and compromise was invested in the Good Friday Agreement and everyone has seen the fruits that have come therefrom. They have been historic and edifying in so many ways. However, I have formed the impression that, at present, there is a gap in the ongoing dialogue between our own part and that part of the country. The same applies when one turns a blind eye to glaring issues, such as the murder of solicitor Pat Finucane, because it always was understood that in time of conflict, anyone involved in the legal profession or anyone involved in the media generally were not regarded as targets in any sense of the word. Members have listened to the pleas of the family of Pat Finucane but have not responded sufficiently.

The day Britain did not agree to have a proper public investigation sent the wrong signal. We all believe there was collusion between the security forces and those who murdered Pat Finucane. The murder was condemned throughout the world. There is no doubt whatsoever now about murderous collusion between the security forces and the people who carried out the murder. If we do not strongly and formally, at the highest level, require what the Finucane family now request and deserve, namely, ensure there is a proper public inquiry, we will always have the type of thing that erupts right in the middle of the peace process. I compliment Senator Paul Coghlan on his comments. I ask the Leader to bring the matter straight to the Taoiseach, who is an honest man and one who is committed on those issues. We cannot let it lie because it will fester and give us more trouble in the future.