Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 248: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs his position on Irish unity and independence. [47261/08]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The Programme for Government makes clear that, following on the significant political progress of recent years, the Government is committed to further steps towards peace and unity in our country.

The Government's position in this regard is rooted in the Good Friday Agreement which recognises that it is for the people of the island of Ireland, by agreement, to determine their political future, and commits both the Irish and British Governments to give full effect to their decision. This was endorsed by an overwhelming majority of the people of this island, North and South, in the referenda held in May 1998.

Consistent with this approach the Government has worked determinedly to secure the fullest possible implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and to promote lasting reconciliation between the main traditions on this island. This has been underpinned by a comprehensive programme of cross-border cooperation, including effective collaboration within the framework of the North South Ministerial Council, as well as strengthened efforts to tackle sectarianism, recognizing that mutual tolerance and respect are the essential underpinning of a new relationship among all those who share the island of Ireland.