Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 169: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the efforts made to encourage members of the Democratic Unionist Party and the Ulster Unionist Party to attend meetings of the Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41818/08]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The Joint Committee on the implementation of the Good Friday Agreement was established by the Oireachtas for the purpose of considering issues relating to the functioning and implementation of the Good Friday Agreement, and other matters referred to it by Dáil Éireann.

In addition to members of the Oireachtas, participation in the work of the Committee is open to Northern Ireland members elected to the Westminster Parliament. I welcome the fact that a number of MPs have participated in the Committee, and made a significant contribution to its deliberations. I very much hope that in the near future members from all parties will feel in a position to do so. I know that their participation and insights would add greatly to the work of the Committee.

In line with the Government's commitment in this area, I and my officials avail of every appropriate opportunity to encourage greater understanding and cooperation between the main traditions on the island. I have consistently made clear my view of the benefits of closer dialogue, including through participation in the work of the Good Friday Agreement Committee. I recognise, of course, that ultimately this is a matter for decision by individual members and their parties.

In this regard I am encouraged by the example of the British Irish Parliamentary Assembly, where unionist representatives recently participated as members for the first time. I am also aware of the ongoing contacts on a range of issues between Committees of the Oireachtas and of the Northern Ireland Assembly. I believe that this type of engagement is to be welcomed and makes a real contribution to better relations between North and South.