Opposition anger over not meeting Howard

Opposition leaders today complained that they are not allowed to meet Australian Prime Minister John Howard, who begins a four-day state visit to Ireland this weekend.

Labour Party TD Michael D Higgins also complained that he first heard about the official trip in the newspapers.

Mr Howard is due to address the Dáil on Tuesday as well as hold meetings with the Taoiseach and the President.

Greens leader Trevor Sargent today claimed he had personally met British Prime Minister Tony Blair and former US president Bill Clinton during previous visits in the past.

The Dublin North TD said his Green Party colleagues in Australia were also angry that he would not be meeting their premier.

He said: “It will reflect badly on Ireland that it sees itself in such a partisan fashion, and it reminds us of some of the partisan politics which we are trying to get away from, and which have bedevilled Australia as well as Ireland and other countries in the past.

“We should ensure censorship does not take place for the visit and cause rancour.”

Sinn Féin’s Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin also criticised the absence of parity of esteem shown to political parties represented in the Oireachtas.

“We must defend at all times the right to equality of opportunity and that has been denied to a number of political parties, including Sinn Féin, in the proposals before us,” he said.

Mr Higgins claimed that Mr Howard’s state visit was announced without the necessary diplomatic preparation or consultation with other TDs and senators.

Mr Higgins claimed that the Dáil only had six minutes to discuss a motion approving the state visit by Mr Howard.

He added: “There has been an elaborate ritual involving directives, orders and other such things as to how people will parade in and out of the chamber, and the formation in which visitors will sit, which is always very impressive and dates back to Leonardo Da Vinci.

“It is important, however, that an inkling be given in advance as to the purpose and intent of the visit. I do not mean to be discourteous but any visit should be better and more thoughtfully arranged, with greater respect for this parliament.”

Leas Ceann Comhairle Seamus Pattison said all arrangements for the visit were made in accordance with procedures of the Committee on Procedure and Privileges (CPP).

But Mr Higgins replied: “I read about it in the press before there was any communication from the minister or the Committee on Procedure and Privileges.”

Representing the Government in the Dáil, Tánaiste Mary Harney said she also understood the CPP had met to discuss the arrangements for this visit and that they were unanimously agreed.

“Furthermore, the chief whip agreed there would be a debate in the House this morning, at the request of Deputy Stagg and the opposition,” she added.