Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I am sure many here watched last night's RTE programme on the collusion between the security forces in the North of Ireland and the loyalist death squads. It is quite evident that this collusion was known and sanctioned by the very highest level of the system. Great credit is due to RTE for this programme. It was exceptionally well researched and balanced in giving others the opportunity to express their views.

We must remember that there are still outstanding issues. Certainly, the Dublin and Monaghan bombings require attention from the point of view of Seanad Éireann. Each year we watch the commemorations by the relatives of those massacred at that time. We must also remember the particular tragedy that befell these families at that time. The Government has been proactive on this. However, last night’s television programme showed quite clearly there was collusion by the British security forces in the killing of our citizens. The Leader might once more ask the Taoiseach to ask the British Administration to release the papers in its possession and to carry out a full and proper inquiry. Those who watched Pat Finucane’s family on last night’s programme would have been impressed with their dignity. One could also see the outrage they felt. They were expecting a public inquiry and every indication was given there would be one. Tony Blair had made the promise that it would happen. It was quite clear from looking at last night’s programme that the only reason the public inquiry did not take place was because there was collusion by the security forces. As a House of Parliament in the Republic, we should make our views strongly known. Will the Leader ask the Taoiseach to once more raise the Dublin-Monaghan bombings, the Pat Finucane murder and the broader issues in question with the Prime Minister in Britain? We all accept there is a good relationship between our two countries, something which we all welcome. However, it is not possible to watch a programme like the one last night and say, "Forget it all". It is not as simple as that.