Inviting Northern leaders
The Leader answers questions on the constitutional convention, committee issues and inviting the Northern First and Deputy First Ministers to the House.
Senator Norris raised a point on the constitutional convention and also in regard to gay marriage. The constitutional convention will continue and I am sure Senator Norris will have his say in that regard.
Senator Crown raised two questions in regard to the financial reports for the committee and the make-up of the committee. They are points he can raise during the debate.
Senator O'Neill asked about the difference between the killing of PSNI officers and gardaí. I believe the killing of any person is a despicable act and there should not be a distinction between one and another. Sinn Féin has not answered that and it should answer, but we did not get an answer here this morning.
Comment on this
The First Minister and the Deputy First Minister will be able to debate it.
Comment on this
In regard to the First Minister and Deputy First Minister, I have outlined on at least five occasions the protocol involved in inviting the First Minister and Deputy First Minister. I can assure the Senator they have been invited and I have received an acknowledgement to my correspondence. He will be one of the first to know when both of them accept, but both of them will have to accept.