Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Question 100: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if there has been communication with the British Government with regard to proposed changes to the right of Irish citizens to vote in local and general elections in the United Kingdom; if such a change would have an impact on the provision of the Good Friday Agreement; his views on making a similar change here with regard to the voting rights of British subjects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12623/08]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The British Government commissioned an independent review of citizenship carried out by former British Attorney General, Lord Goldsmith, who issued his report on 11 March. The report, which I would point out is a consultative document, refers to the voting rights of Irish citizens in Britain. The British Government have indicated that it is considering the report in the context of its ongoing constitutional review and stressed that no decisions have yet been taken.

My officials were briefed on the contents of the report by British officials upon publication and agreed there would be further discussion between the two Governments.

The Government is carefully examining the report, including any implications for Good Friday Agreement commitments. A particular priority for the Government in ongoing contacts with the British Government will be to ensure that any proposals that may emerge would be consistent with the principles of the Good Friday Agreement.

The provision of reciprocal voting rights for Irish and British citizens reflects our historic relations and is a valuable expression of the special ties between the two countries to the mutual benefit of our citizens. We will maintain ongoing contact with the British Government on this issue and have already conveyed these initial views to the British authorities.