Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I would like to be associated with and wholeheartedly agree with the tributes and sentiments expressed regarding Fr. Alec Reid of Clonard monastery. He was truly a giant of a man in regard to the peace process. He was effective, in his quiet way, in steering it along the course it took and in bringing it to fruition. Like Senator Bacik, I would welcome a debate on the peace process. The process needs nurturing at this time. We will not say it has stalled, but there are many issues, such as the flags, parades and legacy issues which are exercising the minds of those involved in the Oireachtas Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and Committee A of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly. A debate on this issue would be timely.

These are very timely, as has been suggested. The report of the US special envoy, Richard Haass, is due to be concluded by Christmas and, hopefully, will be issued in the new year. I suggest the two matters could be taken together.

Will the Leader consider a separate debate on the Smithwick report on collusion which will be delivered to the clerks of both Houses this Friday?