DAIL REPORT: The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, has stressed the urgency of agreeing to assembly elections in the North."I stated categorically, not only in America but last week that, effectively, we have about a week," said Mr Ahern.
"As of now, I cannot tell the House the basis of how such an end could be constructively engineered, but that is the reality." He said that it might not matter a great deal if time drifted on for another few weeks but for the fact that a timespan was required to have an election. "It is now October 7th, and there is some debate about whether the six-week rule could be slightly shortened. As of now, we are negotiating on the basis that six weeks notice will be required. It would be difficult to get everything set up and moving by the end of November, given that it is now mid-October," he added. "I stated categorically, not only in America but last week that, effectively, we have about a week. As of now, I cannot tell the House the basis of how such an end could be constructively engineered, but that is the reality." Mr Ahern said the Government wished the ongoing talks between the UUP and Sinn Féin well.
"It is not necessary for the two governments to be involved in all talks. We are anxious to see whatever dialogue is possible taking place and we support it," he added. "There is no opposing view, either between the governments or the parties. We have not, as yet, reached a position where we have the basis of an agreement which would allow us to positively move towards elections, or even for people on both sides to be positive in their manifestos and manner of canvassing going into those elections."
Replying to questions on the North, the Taoiseach said he expected to have further meetings to secure the progress needed. "I have made it clear what is now needed. We need elections," said Mr Ahern. "We need to have an end to all paramilitary activity backed up by decommissioning. We need the unionists to commit to sustaining stable and inclusive institutions. We need the two governments to deliver on their commitments to the full implementation of the Good Friday agreement, including those outlined in the Joint Declaration."
He added that the British Prime Minister, Mr Blair, and himself were determined to work jointly with the parties to get the executive and the assembly working effectively. The good summer had a settling effect on the situation generally, he said, adding that he commended all those who had worked to bring it about. "This achievement must be sustained and consolidated throughout the whole year and through next summer and beyond," he added.
He said that parties could not be half in and half out of the process. "The agreement is the only prospect for a stable, democratic future.
"The only real option is for parties to commit themselves fully to the agreement."
Mr Ahern said he readily agreed with Mr Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (SF, Cavan-Monaghan) that the Government had responsibilities to carry out.
"I hope he will readily admit that his party has responsibilities to carry out, also," he added.
