Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 144: To ask the Taoiseach the position regarding the Northern talks and further plans for 2005. [34578/04]

Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Chief Constable Hugh Orde's comments on 7 January regarding the Northern Bank robbery are a matter of deep concern. While recognising that the investigation is ongoing and arrests have yet to be made, irrespective of the final outcome of the investigation, the attribution of the Northern Bank robbery to the Provisional IRA represents a serious set-back for the political process in Northern Ireland and is corrosive of the public confidence that we have been seeking to create.

It underscores the need for compelling commitments, both in word and deed, that the full spectrum of IRA paramilitary activities and capability has been brought to a definitive closure. This must include the necessary assurance in regard to all forms of criminal activity which, following the Northern Bank robbery, clearly remains a major concern.

The proposals for a comprehensive agreement published by both Governments on 8 December provided for these essential commitments, both in regard to the transparency of arms decommissioning and the ending of all forms of paramilitary and criminal activity. Recent developments have validated the need for such demonstrable commitments if the public confidence necessary to sustain inclusive government is to be achieved.

At political level, the robbery and its aftermath will reinforce the determination of both Governments to complete the unfinished business arising from the comprehensive agreement. If stable politics in Northern Ireland is to be secured, there can be no doubt or ambiguity about the total commitment of all concerned to exclusively peaceful and democratic engagement, including desisting from involvement in criminality in all its forms.

On his return from the Far East, the Minister for Foreign Affairs met with Secretary of State Murphy to review matters and I met with a Sinn Féin delegation led by Gerry Adams, an SDLP delegation led by Mark Durkan and a UUP delegation led by David Trimble yesterday. I will meet with David Forde and an Alliance Party delegation tomorrow. Prime Minister Blair and I will meet next week.