Committees for Cross-Border Economic Projects
O'Connell asked whether a permanent ministerial and civil-service committee would advance cross-border projects. The Taoiseach said two interdepartmental committees had been established, then asked O'Connell to remind him of an alleged 1971 commitment to a similar committee involving Stormont.
asked the Taoiseach if he intends to set up a permanent committee of Ministers and civil servants to facilitate the cross-Border economic projects discussed at the recent London summit.
Comment on this
The Government have established two interdepartmental committees to deal with the subject of economic co-operation between Ireland and the United Kingdom, with particular reference to Northern Ireland.
The first, larger, committee is considering the general approach of the Irish side, including individual projects. The second committee will comprise the officials who will conduct the discussions with British officials.
Guidance will be given by Ministers to the committees as appropriate.
Comment on this
Would I be right in saying that in 1971 the Taoiseach said he was having a committee of Ministers from the South and from the Stormont Government set up for the same purpose as this is being done now?