asked the Taoiseach if the Government will initiate an all-Ireland competition among artists, to design a monument for O'Connell Street, Dublin, which would be mutually acceptable to both the Northern and Sourthern traditions, and reflect the common name of Irishmen.

While the Government have no plans for a project of the nature the Deputy has in mind, we are at all times prepared to consider any worthwhile proposal that would promote the concept of unity and better understanding between all Irish men and women.

Would the Taoiseach not agree that there has been too much rhetoric about a united Ireland and not enough action? Here is a golden opportunity to do something positive to give tangible approval.

I thought that this matter concerned Nelson's Pillar.

There is no mention of that in my question, if the Chair will read it. It is an opportunity for the Government to erect in O'Connell Street, the main thoroughfare, a monument which would be acceptable to both traditions, north and south of the Border.

I find it difficult to visualise what sort of monument the Deputy has in mind. Perhaps we could discuss the matter privately.

Maybe Deputy Griffin is thinking of a monument to the Taoiseach himself?

You would never know.

You certainly would.

This metamorphosis is flabbergasting.

We will wait until after the election.