We believe Northern MPs should be entitled to address the Dáil

YOUR columnist Noel Whelan’s dismissive attitude in relation to Northern representation in the Dáil underlines a curious reality that is emerging from among prominent members of the political establishment in the 26-Counties in recent times (Irish Examiner, October 6).

As Sinn Féin continues to promote and champion the idea of allowing representatives of all Irish people living in the Six Counties to have a role in discussions in the Houses of the Oireachtas on issues that directly affect their lives, it would appear that certain sections of the establishment have hardened their attitudes against such a proposition.

Noel Whelan attempts to confuse matters by claiming that it would be unconstitutional and that it wouldn't be permitted by the courts. However, the reality is that facilitating Northern representation in the Dáil or Seanad is a matter of political will and ultimately a matter to be decided in the Houses of the Oireachtas.

In that regard it should be pointed out that following the signing of the Good Friday Agreement, it was Taoiseach Bertie Ahern who requested the All-Party Oireachtas Committee on the Constitution to examine the issue of Northern representation. In 2002, the committee recommended that MPs from the Six Counties should have "a limited right of audience within the Dáil".

While we have some reservations about the committee's report, we believe it provides a basis for progress.

It should be noted also that the Taoiseach, when commenting on the report of the all-party committee, said: "I agree with its view that it would be valuable, from time to time, to have the expertise, experience and insight of Northern Irish politicians in specific and appropriate debates in the Oireachtas."

He went on to say: "The Government supports making the necessary procedural arrangements to allow MPs elected in Northern Ireland constituencies to speak in periodic debates on Northern Ireland, particularly on matters relating to the Good Friday Agreement."

So far from being either hype or hope, as Mr Whelan suggests, this issue is something which all the political parties in Leinster House agreed to, despite some backtracking and u-turns of late, and it is something that Sinn Féin will seek to have implemented and built upon as soon as possible.

And we firmly believe it is something that the majority of Irish people would agree to.

Martin Ferris TD

Leinster House

Kildare Street

Dublin 2