asked the Taoiseach whether it is open to voluntary organisations, political parties and youth organisations to make submissions to the study groups now working within the framework of an examination of the totality of the relationship between Britain and Ireland; and whether he envisaged that a contribution could be made by such bodies.

It would not be appropriate for submissions of the kind referred to by the Deputy to be made to the study groups. Any representations or proposals which these organisations may wish to put forward should be submitted to me or the appropriate Minister and they can be assured of the fullest consideration.

Would the Taoiseach agree that if the study groups are putting forward ideas that may yet result in an improvement in relationships in these islands as between North and South or in new institutional arrangements, we should tap all the resources within the country outside political parties? Political parties do not have a monopoly of good ideas in this area and we should make known that the Taoiseach does issue an invitation to all groups in the country to make known their ideas in this area.

I would agree with that and I hope that this exchange will have that effect.