Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the contact he has had with the Northern Executive and the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland in relation to the outbreak of sectarian violence in Northern Ireland over the past number of days; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55929/12]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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I would like to take this opportunity to once again condemn the outbreaks of violence related to the issue of flying of the Union Flag at Belfast City Hall that we have witnessed in Belfast and elsewhere in Northern Ireland over the last week. Peaceful protest is perfectly legitimate but respect for the rule of law is essential. The attacks on the homes of elected representatives of the Alliance party and their families, and the death threats issued against members of that party are particularly distressing. These attacks, along with the destruction and damage caused to Alliance party offices are attacks on the democratic process itself. Assaults directed at PSNI officers such as we have witnessed are reprehensible and have no place in a civilised society.

I spoke to David Ford on Thursday 6 December who is both Minister for Justice with devolved responsibility for policing and justice, and leader of the Alliance party. I conveyed to him the support of the Irish Government for the PSNI and solidarity with those members of his party who have had to endure assaults on themselves, their families and their property. Yesterday afternoon I discussed the ongoing efforts of the two Governments in support of political progress with the Secretary of State Theresa Villiers. Officials from my Department remain in close contact with members of the political parties, the PSNI and British officials on an ongoing basis.

The Northern Ireland Assembly passed a motion on Monday morning with cross-community support which unequivocally condemned the rioting and the campaign of violent attacks on elected representatives and expressed its sympathy to all those who have been attacked or threatened.

The Government will continue to do all in its power to support the political leaders in Northern Ireland as they work to move beyond the current tensions. Great progress has been made in Northern Ireland towards becoming a society governed by the rule of law, and respect for equality and diversity. The violent events of the past week are a throwback to dark days in the past and will be condemned by everyone committed to true reconciliation.