asked the Taoiseach the Department which is now responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Anglo-Irish Agreement and the operation of Anglo-Irish relations generally; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

In accordance with the position over the years, policy on Northern Ireland is primarily the responsibility of the Taoiseach.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs is the Permanent Irish Ministerial Representative to the Anglo-Irish Intergovernmental Conference. His Department have primary responsibility for the day-to-day operation of the Anglo-Irish Agreement and of Anglo-Irish relations generally. Other Ministers are also involved as members of the Government with collective responsibility and to the extent that their responsibilities require.

Have any officials from outside the Department of Foreign Affairs been appointed to the Anglo-Irish Conference or to the secretariat at Maryfield?

No.

Are any such appointments in contemplation?

That is a matter to be decided.