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The Forum for Political Dialogue met between 1996 and 1998 in Belfast as part of the negotiations that led to the Good Friday Agreement.
Source material
Northern Ireland Forum For Political Dialogue Record of Debates (Print) VOLUME 2
Details
Volume 2 (4 October 1996 to 29 November 1996)
Crown Copyright 2000
Produced in Northern Ireland on behalf of the Northern Ireland Assembly by the Stationery Office Ltd, which is responsible for printing and publishing Northern Ireland Assembly publications.
Associated with
Committee: The Forum
Question put and agreed to. Resolved: That the Forum adopts the interim report on education administration in Northern Ireland prepared by the Education Committee on 30 September 1996 and forwarded to the Minister for Education with the request that... Friday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Statement on Multi-Party Talks at Stormont Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
[Mr Trimble:] I beg to move the following motion: Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Debate Topic: Multi-Party Talks Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Statement on Multi-Party Talks at Stormont Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Rev Dr Ian Paisley: Does the Gentleman agree that the point now at issue is whether the parties accept the Mitchell Report, not the Mitchell principles? Mr Mallon, evidently speaking as the accredited spokesman of the SDLP, asked the other day "When... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Statement on Multi-Party Talks at Stormont: DUP Amendment Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: May I congratulate the three Members who have spoken for sticking rigidly to the allotted time — 20 minutes, 10 minutes and 10 minutes, respectively. Mr McCartney: Mr Chairman, I was not clear what you meant at the beginning when you... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Decide at 3:30 pm Whether to Extend the Meeting Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Dodds: In this debate there has been talk about Unionists wanting to stall the substantive negotiations. They insist, rightly, that decommissioning should be dealt with at the outset. Before the talks broke up for the summer recess, the Unionist... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
3.30 pm The Chairman: There are six Members still on my list. Ten minutes each will take an hour. Then there will be winding-up speeches. Allowing for Divisions, we should think in terms of an extension of an hour. I would be grateful for a motion to... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Extension of Sitting Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Resolved: That the sitting be extended to 5.00 pm. — [Mr Shannon] Debate resumed. The Chairman: Remember that voting requires Members to be in the Chamber. Some odd results could occur if people were to leave a little earlier. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr King: I came to this process in the dim distant past — in June — with no baggage, solely in the belief that for future generations to enjoy the citizenship that we are all currently enjoying, it was time for Unionism to engage. To my horror, my... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: The motion on which Members will vote shortly requires a 66% majority, and the other conditions of the famous Rule 13(1) will apply. Rev Dr Ian Paisley: Will you call both amendments, Mr Chairman? The Chairman: Yes. Rev Dr Ian Paisley:... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Ms McWilliams: It is not objectionable to compare Hitler and Fascism with the Government of the Republic of Ireland? Rev Dr Ian Paisley: Certainly not. It was Mr Haughey who brought the Provos into existence and armed them. I do not know where the... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Statement on Multi-Party Talks at Stormont: Alliance Amendment Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Lord Alderdice: It has been said on several occasions that the people of Northern Ireland have spoken. The people of Northern Ireland have, of course, spoken in a number of elections. Unfortunately, they do not speak with one voice or in one direction.... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Hunter: Was it not Lord Alderdice's party that, a few weeks ago, managed to hold up the progress of the talks for several days by making ludicrous charges against the Ulster Unionist Party in relation to the events over the summer? Lord Alderdice:... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Point of Order: Alderdice called Twice Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Sammy Wilson: I wish to support the amendment put forward by my party. The amendment centres on the main issue that now faces us all — how to ensure that a cease-fire is meaningful, real and permanent and does not allow parties, when they do not... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Eric Smyth: I rise to support my party's amendment. Unlike many people, I do not believe that we have peace. I believe that we are still in a state of war. We are not fighting the IRA. And the Protestant paramilitaries, while not using their weapons... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: I think, Lord Alderdice, that Dr Paisley is probably right. Lord Alderdice: I have no problem with what Dr Paisley has said. I was simply responding to the amendment. You called me, and I was happy to speak. The Chairman: I take total... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Taylor: It is rumoured that people used to vote more than once — in Northern Ireland, often. A moment ago, someone nearly got to speak twice. But we now have rules for elections as well as for the Forum. This debate is important for Northern... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Point of Order: Only One Amendment Before the Forum Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Lord Alderdice: I have no objection to that course, which seems perfectly in order. As previously, I am quite happy to abide by your ruling, Mr Chairman. The Chairman: My goodness, with a result like this of a discussion like that, I have great faith... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Question put: That the amendment be made. The Forum divided: Ayes 22 (46%); Noes 26; Abstentions 5. Ayes: May Beattie, Robert Bolton, Cecil Calvert, Mervyn Carrick, Wilson Clyde, Nigel Dodds, Oliver Gibson, Trevor Kirkland, St Clair McAlister, Jack... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
5.00 pm Main question put. The Forum divided: Ayes 24 (50%); Noes 24; Abstentions 5. Ayes: Antony Alcock, David Brewster, David Browne, David Campbell, James Clarke, Robert Coulter, Ivan Davis, Jeffrey Donaldson, Reg Empey, Sam Gardiner, Joseph... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Comments Against Paisley Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Jim Rodgers: I resent that comment. I am a religious person, and if Dr Paisley has no sense of humour, God help this Forum and Northern Ireland. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Meeting Adjournment Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was adjourned at 5.15 pm. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Resolution on the Bombing of Thiepval Army Barracks Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Ms McWilliams: The Northern Ireland Women's Coalition, in contributing to this debate — particularly on the Ulster Unionists' motion — is conscious of the fact that all the parties involved in the talks have agreed a position of confidentiality. I am... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr John White: I have a slight problem: this speech, which I wrote out last night and this morning, lasts somewhat over 10 minutes. However, I will try to speed it up. The speed at which we have moved forward in our negotiations has obviously not been... Friday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Resolution on the Bombing of Thiepval Army Barracks Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Mr Trimble: I beg to move: [...] Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Expressions on Monday's Bombing Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
The Chairman: Yesterday the Business Committee made a recommendation, which I had no hesitation in accepting: that we must not let the events of last Monday go by without expressing our feelings. Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Empey rose. Mr Hugh Smyth: On a point of order, Mr Chairman. Will Mr Empey give way? The Chairman: When Members get up to make a point of order, will they please say precisely what they have in mind. Mr Hugh Smyth: I am not making a point of... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Call to Order Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was called to order at 10.03 am (Mr J R Gorman in the Chair). Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Two Minutes' Silence Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Members observed two minutes' silence. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Point of Order: Doors Open during Silence Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: A very reasonable point. Mr Poots: I think you will agree that it was a point of order. The Chairman: I agree, and in future I will do what you have suggested. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Peter Robinson: I should like to associate my Colleagues and myself with the words of sympathy in the motion, making particular mention, as Mr Trimble did, of the sympathy that we all express to the loved ones of Warrant Officer Bradwell, who leaves... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Continue the Debate Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
It was so decided. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Letter of Condolence to the Family of the Killed Soldier Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: I have a feeling that there is general assent to this motion, with the suggested amendment. The sympathy of all Forum Members goes out to all those who have been hurt, and our condemnation of the IRA will be made manifest in the media. I... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Thiepval Army Barracks: Inclusion of Sympathy to Family of the Deceased Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Amendment made: After "sympathy" insert "to the family of the soldier who was killed and". — [Mr Trimble] Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Question, as amended, put and agreed to. Resolved: That this Forum deplores the bombing of Thiepval Army Barracks on Monday 7 October and expresses its sympathy to the family of the soldier who was killed and to those injured. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: That is very helpful. Do Members agree to the course that has just been suggested? Members indicated assent. [Editor's Note: By agreeing to maintain the speech times under the Rules of Procedure, the Forum Members therefore decided not... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Close: I join those who have already expressed sympathy to the relatives of the soldier about whose death we learnt this morning, but also to the many people who were injured by the bombs at Thiepval Barracks on Monday last. Being from Lisburn and... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Ms Sagar: The Northern Ireland Women's Coalition supports the motion. It saddens me to think that, although we make speeches and try to show sympathy for people, we cannot possibly understand what they are going through. It is up to everybody here to... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was suspended at 11.38 am and resumed at 11.55 am. Friday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Motion on Northern Ireland Economy Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
[Mr McAlister:] I beg to move the following motion: Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Motion on the Economy Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Point of Order: Amendments Circulated in Advance Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: Are Members willing to debate the amendment despite the absence of notice? Members indicated assent. [Editor's Note: We have modelled the point of order as dropped because the Members were not rejecting the Rule to which Neeson referred... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McCartney: On behalf of myself and my party I join in the expressions of sympathy to the relatives of Warrant Officer Bradwell and to those who were injured in these diabolical explosions. We make a mistake if we think that appeals to the... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
11.15 am. Mr Poots: I regret having to address this motion. I may not be as experienced in this field or as eloquent as my two party Colleagues, but I think I can introduce a bit of personal detail. At 4.15 pm I was working at my premises — I live... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Give McCartney Leave to Continue Speech Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Members indicated assent. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Decision on Proceedings for the Rest of the Debate Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Donaldson: On behalf of my Colleagues, and especially Mr Davis and Mr David Campbell, who represent the constituency of Lagan Valley, which includes Lisburn, I want to express sympathy to those who are still suffering in hospital because of their... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Extension of Sitting Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Resolved: That the sitting be extended to 5.00 pm. — [Mr Shannon]. Debate resumed. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Give Hussey Leave to Continue Speech Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Members indicated assent. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Hussey: The west has one of the highest unemployment rates in western Europe and includes some of the most severe social deprivation in Northern Ireland. Does anyone imagine for one moment that these factors are unrelated? The transport programme... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
5.00 pm The Chairman: Would the DUP accept that? Mr Peter Robinson: When a motion and an amendment have been proposed, they must be disposed of at the end of the debate. In the absence of agreement, it is necessary to put matters to the vote. It... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Nesbitt: On questions of procedure, Mr Chairman, your ruling is final. I seek your clarification in respect of Rule 6(3). The Chairman: We did agree to carry on until 5 o'clock. Mr Nesbitt: Yes, and business, including any votes, stands adjourned... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Dodds: I would like to join Colleagues in extending deepest sympathy to the family of Warrant Officer Bradwell, who died tragically this morning, and in expressing appreciation of the sacrifice that the Army has made, over the years, and is still... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Change "politicians" to "the Government" Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Point of Order: Notice of Amendment Not Given Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: There is a point in that. Did we have notice? Several Members: No. Mr Nesbitt: Rule 9(1) says. "When an amendment has been moved". There is nothing about its having been given to you in writing or circulated one day in advance, like a... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Letter to the Regulator Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr John White: On behalf of myself and my party I express deepest sympathy for those bereaved by the death this morning of Warrant Officer Bradwell. I am also thinking of all those people who were injured, and their families. I am sure that it is a... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
[Mr Poots:] When the IRA called its cease-fire, the British Government, the Irish Government and the United States Administration made quite a number of concessions to IRA/Sinn Fein. They said that if the movement ever went back to its wicked ways of... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
It was so decided. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Question put: That the amendment be made. The Forum divided: Ayes 15 (42%); Noes 20; Abstentions 0. Ayes: Antony Alcock, David Brewster, David Browne, James Clarke, Robert Coulter, Ivan Davis, Jeffrey Donaldson, Reg Empey, Derek Hussey, John Junkin,... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Main question put and agreed to. Resolved: [...] Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Meeting Adjournment Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was adjourned at 5.14 pm. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Nesbitt: The thrust of the motion that my party has put forward is really a challenge to Ulster Unionism. The motion challenges us, Alliance, the Women's Coalition and Labour, whose Member has just spoken. It challenges people as to whether they are... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Ian Paisley Jnr: Like many other Members, I am interested in some of the comments made by Mr Nesbitt. Indeed, I look forward to my free autographed copy of his latest book on the situation in Northern Ireland. The Member mentioned his manifesto for... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
2.45 pm Mr Alcock: Other Members have dwelt at length on the issue of decommissioning, and I do not intend to add to what has been said. Instead, I want to reject the accusations by those involved in the pan-Nationalist Front that Unionists are... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Call to Order Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was called to order at 10.08 am (Mr I Davis in the Chair). Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Deputizing Chairmen Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Two Minutes' Silence Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Members observed two minutes' silence. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Hugh Smyth: May I, on behalf of myself and my party, join all those who have extended deepest sympathy to the Bradwell family in particular and to all those injured by the bombs. We hope and pray that the bereaved can find the strength, will and... Friday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Motion on Jobseeker's Allowance Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Mr Ervine: I beg to move the following motion: [...] Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Point of Order: DUP Don't Have the Amendment Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Point of Order: Order Papers Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Deputy Chairperson: It is my intention to break for lunch at 12.30. Mr Weir, you have one minute left. Mr Weir: I have really completed what I had to say. If the amendment is photocopied for Members, I urge them to read it. There is nothing in it... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Suspension to Discuss the Amendment Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Cedric Wilson: I suggest that the motion be put to the Forum. This demonstrates just how difficult it is for anybody to work alongside the Ulster Unionists. We have not been surprised in recent months that their party cannot hold a position from one... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Lord Alderdice: Quite rightly, a great deal of sympathy has already been expressed for those who were injured and for the family of the young man who was killed. I want to associate myself with those sentiments. We must all remind ourselves that, long... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Coulter: The amendment having been rejected, the Ulster Unionists will be supporting the motion. Main question put and agreed to. Resolved: [...] Friday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Motion on Privatization of the Water Service Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Mr Neeson: I beg to move the following motion: [...] Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Motion on Privatization of the Water Service Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Question put and agreed to. Resolved: This Forum believes that the Water Executive is such a vital public utility to the people of Northern Ireland that it must remain in public ownership. We call on the present Government to stop wasting public... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Meeting Adjournment Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was adjourned at 3.00 pm. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
European Union Agriculture Funds Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Point of Order: D. Campbell's Speech Out of Order Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Casey: It is important that all parties should have an opportunity to speak. On behalf of the Labour Party, I condemn the bombing in the barracks at Lisburn. The careful planning was evidence of its murderous intent. Clearly, the operation was... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Point of Procedure: Leave for Longer Speeches Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Deputy Chairperson: When Mr Campbell approached me very briefly just before we came into the Chamber I said that I would be very careful about establishing such a precedent. I now rule that for the moment the matter is closed. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Deputy Chairperson: When Mr Campbell approached me very briefly just before we came into the Chamber I said that I would be very careful about establishing such a precedent. I now rule that for the moment the matter is closed. Friday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Motion on the Queen's Speech for the State Opening of Parliament Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Motion on the Queen's Speech for the State Opening of Parliament Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Lord Alderdice: It is important for us to remind ourselves that, as has already been said, the Queen's Speech is about the Government's proposed legislation for the coming session and that the Forum has a very limited role so far as legislation is... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
11.45 am Mr Dodds: I should like to begin, Sir, by wishing you well for your stint in the Chair today. It is very fortunate that we have this opportunity to debate the Queen's Speech. One of the advantages of the Northern Ireland Forum for Political... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Cedric Wilson: It has saddened me — indeed, it saddens all within the Unionist family today — that in debating a United Kingdom Unionist motion we have actually to attribute these comments to Her Majesty the Queen. We know, of course, that this is a... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Question put and agreed to. Resolved: [...] Friday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Motion on Waste Products Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Mr Junkin: I beg to move the following motion: [...] Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Motion on Waste Products Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Question put and agreed to. Resolved: [...] Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Deputy Chairperson's Thanks Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Meeting Adjournment Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was adjourned at 3.21 pm. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Call to Order Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Empey: About 18 months ago I made a speech, which was reported in the newspapers, in which I described the actions of Sinn Fein as similar to those of the Nazis. Several days later I received letters from various clergymen — many of whom will be... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Economy Amendment: Importance of stability Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was called to order at 10.02 am (Mr R J Gorman in the Chair). Friday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee D
Review of the Beef Industry Crisis in Northern Ireland (Interim Report) Thursday October 1996Committee: Standing Committee D
The Chairman: We now turn to the presentation of the interim report from Standing Committee D on the BSE crisis. [Editors' Note: The report was passed to the Business Committee which added it to Forum's Order of Business for 1 November 1996. Note that... Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Motion on the Neil Latimer Case Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
[Mr Ian Paisley Jnr:] The motion before us spells out a number of actions that can be taken, collectively and singly, to convince us that justice is being done. Neil Latimer is not guilty of murder. Neil Latimer did not shoot Adrian Carroll. The man... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Adjournment for Lunch at 12:30 Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Peter Robinson: The Rules of Procedure are not the rules of the Business Committee; they are the Rules of the Forum, agreed by the Forum. But, in its good sense, the Forum left a caveat, which allows a Member, by leave, to go beyond the 10 minutes... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Hugh Smyth: Mr Chairman, I thought that it was understood that you would call one Member from each party before going to the second Member from any party. The Chairman: I am not aware of such a rule. Mr Hugh Smyth: Well, it has been operational... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: Thank you, Mr Smyth. Your timing is impeccable. May I ask Members please to be back in their seats at 1.45 pm. A number of Members have still to speak on this matter, and we have a very important motion about Europe, which we will want... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Ken Maginnis: One could ask "How can this injustice have occurred?" That question could probably be answered, but here is an exceedingly difficult one: "How can this injustice have been perpetuated for 14 years given the weight of evidence produced... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Rev Dr Ian Paisley: I associate myself with the remarks of all who have spoken in this debate. We are talking about a young man who is behind bars, about the wasting of 13 years of his life and the probable wasting of more years if we are not... Friday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
Motion on European Union (Political Integration) Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Remove Wilson's Name from Speaker's List Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
[Editors' Note: We may assume that Wilson's name was removed from the list as he does not speak in the debate.] Friday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
Mr Alcock: I beg to move the following motion: [...] Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Motion on European Union (Political Integration) Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Motion on European Union: DUP Amendment Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
[Mr Nesbitt:] The industrial sector has quite often lambasted politicians. In July 1996 the Mr Tosh to whom I referred a moment ago said that there was "not a single shred of evidence that politicians are conscious of the urgency that is expected from... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Dodds: I was waiting for something to be added to Mr Alcock's speech — a ringing declaration that from now on his party would have nothing to do with the very party in Europe that advocates everything to which he is opposed and about which he has... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Motion on European Union: Alliance Amendment Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Meeting Adjournment Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was adjourned at 3.54 pm. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Adopt Interim Report from Standing Committee D Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Neeson: I welcome the opportunity to debate the economy. It may be remembered that when we were setting up the Committees the Alliance Party expressed the view that one of them should deal specifically with the Northern Ireland economy. I hope that... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: We will continue for five minutes. Mr McCartney. Mr McCartney: I thought we had an arrangement. However, I will not waste any time. The Chairman: We will do the best we can. Mr McCartney: I support Mr Nesbitt's amendment. One could not... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Carrick: I support the motion, which calls on the Government to develop a long-term innovative strategy for the expansion of the Northern Ireland economy. Economists and business managers will have various definite views on the development of the... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Hugh Smyth: I make no apology for supporting the amendment, which recognizes our responsibility: "While recognizing that the creation of stability is the most important immediate contribution that politicians can make to the Northern Ireland... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Question put and agreed to. Resolved: [...] Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Call to Order Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was called to order at 10.05 am (Mr J R Gorman in the Chair). Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Two Minutes' Silence Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Members observed two minutes' silence. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Act of Remembrance Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Shannon: I support the motion. The proposal before the Forum today is of vital importance to the province as a whole and, in particular, to the area that I represent - not just the borough of Ards, but the constituency of Strangford. The motion... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Respond to Letter from Malcolm Moss, Minister Responsible for Housing Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Members indicated assent. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Permission for Neeson to Speak Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Members indicated assent. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: Ms Jane Morrice, who is in the Chamber for the remainder of the debate, is most welcome. She has done a splendid job as head of the European Community's office in Northern Ireland. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Permission to Extend McCartney's Speech Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Members indicated assent. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Poots: There are some matters which need to be seriously addressed if we are to be serious about job creation. One of these has already been mentioned — the matter of power costs. The Department of Economic Development sold off the power generation... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Trimble: This motion calls on the Government to pledge a referendum on the issue of European political integration. Such action is entirely appropriate — indeed, necessary. A referendum is the appropriate course of action when one is contemplating a... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Change Voting Mechanism to Show of Hands Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Point of Order: Notice Needed for Change in Voting Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: I have to agree. We shall wait for three minutes before voting. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Change Voting Mechanism to Show of Hands Following Notice Given Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Amendment made: At the end of the first sentence, after "Union", add ", the European Commission and the two largest political groups in the European Parliament"; and in the third sentence, after "political", insert "or economic". — [Mr Dodds] Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Resolved: [...] Friday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee C
Investigation into the Proposed Fluoridation of Water Supplies in Northern Ireland (Interim Report) Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Hussey: I welcome the amendment because there is no doubt in my mind that unemployment is the running partner of terrorism. We have recently seen the cancellation of two Chamber of Commerce and Industry initiatives in Northern Ireland — because of... Friday October 1996Committee: Standing Committee C
The Chairman: As we have a quarter of an hour before the lunch break, we shall begin the debate on the interim report of Standing Committee C. [Editors' Note: The report was passed to the Business Committee which added it to Forum's Order of Business... Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Calvert: I support the motion. The people of Northern Ireland, given a fair chance, are the most hard-working anywhere in the United Kingdom. Why is the province not given the opportunity to attract a big multinational company? Let me illustrate.... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Parties to Formulate Agreed Motion for Forum Next Week Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Peter Robinson: The Business Committee decided that, as a matter of courtesy, amendments should be available in advance. That happened in the case of the Official Unionists' motion last week, but not today. It should be a matter of course from now... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Hunter: In supporting my party's motion, I would like to concentrate on the part which condemns the continuing IRA terrorist outrages and calls upon all Members to ensure that there can be no participation in the talks by parties — and one party in... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Adopt Interim Report from Standing Committee C Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Adopt Labour Proposals on Fluoridation of Water Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Adjournment for Lunch Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Hugh Smyth: I know that Members want to get to the five-minute-speech debate— probably after lunch. I do not want to bore the Forum. If you want to call those two Members now, Mr Chairman, I will waive my right of reply and the Questions can be put. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Question put: That the amendment be made. The Forum proceeded to a Division. The Chairman: Do I have your consent to our using a show of hands? Members indicated assent. The Ayes and Noes having been registered by show of hands, the Chairman... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Main Question put and agreed to. Resolved: [...] Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Call to Order Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was called to order at 10.04 am (Mr J R Gorman in the Chair). Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Two Minutes' Silence Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Members observed two minutes' silence. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
2.00 pm Mr Casey: At the outset I would like to declare that the Labour Party is totally opposed to violence, from whomever or whatever it comes. We believe only in the democratic process. The nub of the matter is that what we are engaged in here is a... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Somme Ceremony Friday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
Motion on Anglo-Irish Agreement Thursday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
Rev Dr Ian Paisley: I beg to move the following motion: [...] Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Motion on Anglo-Irish Agreement Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Trimble: I rise to support the motion moved by Dr Paisley. While it is with pleasure that I do so, I must say that it is a matter of very deep regret to myself and, I am sure, to all others present that we are debating this issue again 11 years on —... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Permission to Extend Speech Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Cedric Wilson: It would be impossible for a person who has any understanding of what is happening in the negotiations at Stormont to support this motion and have a clear conscience. When the matter was raised in the Business Committee, Mr Neeson... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Members indicated assent. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Hugh Smyth: I will be very brief. [Laughter] The Chairman: It would not be the same if you did not start with those words, Mr Smyth. I am delighted that you are in good form. Mr Hugh Smyth: I'll be taking the time that you have just used, Mr... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Speaking Numbers Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Extension of Sitting Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mrs I Robinson: I will try not to be repetitive. However, there are some points that can sensibly be repeated in order that the Government, who have managed to ignore the majority's views on most matters over these years, know that we still hold firm... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Motion on Jobseekers' Allowance: UUP Amendment Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Ms Sagar: The Northern Ireland Women's Coalition does not support the introduction of the jobseeker's allowance. Our view is based on a direct comparison between the benefits for unemployed people before and after the introduction of the allowance.... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Resolved: That the sitting be extended by 15 minutes. — [Mr Empey] Debate resumed. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Peter Robinson: This has been a very worthwhile debate, and there have been many very useful contributions. I welcome the fact that the Ulster Unionist Party, having tabled an amendment, did not move it. I hope that this is the beginning of a trend.... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Point of Order: Chairman's Duty to Let Every Member be Heard Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Brewster: I have listened to this debate with great interest. It has certainly been wide-ranging - from the broad European approach taken by my Friend Prof Alcock to Mr Paisley's gambit for Unionist unity. I think we are all unhappy with the rate of... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: Are you making a speech or a point of order? Rev Dr Ian Paisley: It is a point of order. The Chairman: To what Rule specifically are you referring? Rev Dr Ian Paisley: The Member who is speaking cannot be heard, even though the... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: Let us get on. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Point of Order: Winding-Up Speeches should be on Topic Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Shannon: We fought the Forum election on a number of principles, one of which was decommissioning, about which we felt strongly. We have a duty to those who voted for us to hold fast to that requirement. People out there have told us that that is... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: This is not a point of order. Mr Robinson, you have another minute. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Question put and agreed to. Resolved (resolution subsequently negatived in accordance with Rule 13(1)): This Forum, on the occasion of the eleventh anniversary of the signing of the Anglo-Irish diktat, declares its unalterable opposition to the... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Point of Order: Send Resolutions to Secretary of State Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
4.15 pm The Chairman: On your first point, my practice is to send the Record of Debates to the Secretary of State. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Trimble: Further to that point of order, Mr Chairman. I concur with the comments that have been made about the unusual nature of the Rule that gives you this unique function. Incidentally, it was by no means required by the legislation. Indeed, it... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Meeting Adjournment Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was adjourned at 4.18 pm. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Call to Order Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Motion on Jobseeker's Allowance Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
[Mr Jim Rodgers:] The jobseeker's allowance had to be introduced because of widespread abuse of the system. Over the years too many people have had absolutely no intention of looking for a job or seeking a training place. One of the reasons was the... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was called to order at 10.05 am (Mr J R Gorman in the Chair). Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Two Minutes' Silence Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Members observed two minutes' silence. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Expression of Sympathies Friday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee B
Review of Education Administration in Northern Ireland (Education and Library Boards) Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee B
Mr Gibson: I beg to move the following motion: That the Forum adopts the final report on education administration in Northern Ireland (education and library boards), prepared by Standing Committee B, and decides to forward it to the Minister... Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Ms Parkes: For the past 17 years the Conservative Government have systematically eroded the welfare state as we know it. Not content with dismantling the health service, they intend to use the same failed and flawed approach to social security.... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Hussey: I welcome the call, in the amendment, for an evaluation of the new jobseeker's allowance. With regard to the second part of the amendment, I wish to refer to a report, just presented in draft form, which deals with my own council area. It... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Special Debate (Rule 10(5)) Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Meeting Adjournment Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was adjourned at 4.05 pm. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
FORUM: BUSINESS The Chairman: I would like to remind Members that there are still several names on the list for the five-minute-speech debate. We will take those Members next Friday, and the first will be Mr Poots. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: We have a very full agenda today - so full, indeed, that, rather than continue the special debate of five-minute speeches (item number 6), I propose to postpone that until next week, when we will make time for it. I make that promise,... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Ms Bell: We support the Ulster Unionist amendment. While we certainly agree with the motion, we support the point about the Social Security Secretary's monitoring of the impact. As has been said already, one of the problems about any proposals that... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Neeson: This is a very important issue, and it saddens me that we seem to be facing division on it in the House today. I appeal to the Ulster Unionists to consider withdrawing their amendment, bearing in mind that the PUP was asked at the Business... Friday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
[Editors' Note: The events of this session are conjectural; although we know the subjects that were discussed and a rough overview of debate, the editors do not have a record of the meeting. Description text is taken from the Forum Record of Debates on... Thursday October 1996Committee: Standing Committee B
[Editors' Note: The events of this session are conjectural; although we know the subjects that were discussed and a rough overview of debate, the editors do not have a record of the meeting. Description text is taken from the Forum Record of Debates on... Monday September 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Hugh Smyth: I am going to be very brief. I utterly oppose the amendment put forward by Jim "Harold Wilson" Rodgers. It amazes me that Mr Trimble allowed this to go through in the name of the Ulster Unionists, because it contradicts itself.... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Gibson: Thank you, Mr Chairman, for your kind words. May I also thank very sincerely my Committee members and my Vice-Chairman. They all worked very diligently to achieve this report, and I am duty-bound to honour and respect their... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was suspended at 11.38 am and resumed at 11.55 am. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Members indicated assent. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: We will break until 2.15 pm. As it is not very encouraging to come at the appointed time and find no quorum, please try to get here on time. The meeting was suspended at 1.05 pm and resumed at 2.15 pm. Friday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
The Chairman: Ladies and Gentlemen, just before you go, you are going to have the pleasure of having Ivan Davis sitting in this chair next Friday and Gregory Campbell the following Friday. They will both chair the Business Committee meetings on the... Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
[Editors' Note: Following the meeting of the Business Committee, Davis stood down as interim Chairman.] Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Empey: I do not know what Mr Smyth is reading from, but it is certainly not the amendment. What he is attacking is a general approach that Conservatism has taken to many of these issues over the years. It is certainly not what we have suggested... Friday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
[Editors' Note: The events of this session are conjectural; although we know the subjects that were discussed and a rough overview of debate, the editors do not have a record of the meeting. Description text is taken from the Forum Record of Debates on... Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mrs I Robinson: The only people who are going to benefit from the new jobseeker's allowance are the Government, as they impose yet more stringent cuts on the most vulnerable members of society. Having already targeted the elderly and the disabled, they... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Weir: I will be brief, unlike those Members who promised brevity but used their full 10 minutes. I appeal to Members actually to read the amendment and see what they disagree with. The amendment does not, by any interpretation, welcome the... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Deputy Chairperson (Mr Davis): I feel privileged to have been asked to deputize for the Chairman during the first week of his absence. I shall do my best to preside fairly but firmly. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Letter from Michael Ancram to the Chairman Regarding the Forum's Interim Report on Education Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Gibson: I wish you a pleasant day in your elevated position, Mr Chairman. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Rev Dr Ian Paisley: Mr Chairman, I too wish you well today. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr John White: I looked into the jobseeker's allowance at great length yesterday. I would like to study it further before commenting extensively, but there are some points that I want to make today. It is obvious that this allowance will not go down... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Nesbitt: On a point of order, Mr Chairman. Mr Robinson has just repeated what Dr Paisley said. But this is not what the Rules of Procedure say. What Mr Robinson has suggested would almost preclude any amendment unless it had been typed up and... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was suspended at 12.28 pm and resumed at 1.30 pm. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Neeson: I well remember a former colleague of mine in Carrickfergus Borough Council — regrettably, now deceased — saying many years ago that the quality of water depends on the spirit in which it is taken. The spirit of the debate in the Forum today... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Introduction of Order Papers Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Shannon: I am quite concerned about this whole thing, and I have had a lot of correspondence about it. People are deeply concerned about what it means for them personally. This reaction highlights the issues that confront many of those who are... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Introduction of Order Papers: Amendments in Debate Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Rev Dr Ian Paisley: Yes, but all Members should be provided with copies. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Nesbitt: I was about to ask the question that Mr Hussey put. I agree with Mr Paisley that it would be an idea if all amendments were circulated, but the Rules of Procedure do not preclude acceptance of an amendment in other circumstances. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Deputy Chairperson: I believe that the point put forward by Dr Paisley will be discussed at the Business Committee. Friday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
[Editors' Note: The events of this session are conjectural; although we know the subjects that were discussed and a rough overview of debate, the editors do not have a record of the meeting. Description text is taken from the Forum Record of Debates on... Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
The Chairman: Ladies and Gentlemen, just before you go, you are going to have the pleasure of having Ivan Davis sitting in this chair next Friday and Gregory Campbell the following Friday. They will both chair the Business Committee meetings on the... Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
[Editors' Note: Following the meeting of the Business Committee, G. Campbell stood down as interim Chairman.] Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Gibson: I had no intention of speaking in this debate, but, like everyone else from a rural community, I am aware of the plethora of efforts to massage the unemployment figures. Some schemes were very helpful. In the old days, useful jobs were... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Deputy Chairperson: You have all heard Mr Coulter's suggestion. 12.00 Rev Dr Ian Paisley: There is far too much of this. No party that puts down a motion seeks a suspension to try to get some agreement. A party should believe in a motion or an... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Taylor: Our Chief Whip was trying to comply with what Dr Paisley himself had requested on a previous occasion — that when an amendment is tabled, Members be made aware of what is in it. This morning we have heard many speeches from the DUP attacking... Friday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Business Committee Preliminary Recommendations on Operation of Standing Committees Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
[Editors' Note: The Business Committee recommendations are referred to the Forum for approval.] Thursday October 1996Committee: Standing Committee B
[Editors' Note: The events of this session are conjectural; although we know the subjects that were discussed and a rough overview of debate, the editors do not have a record of the meeting. Description text is taken from the Forum meeting on 25... Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Question put: That the amendment be made. The Forum divided: Ayes 19 (38%); Noes 30; Abstentions 0. Ayes: Antony Alcock, Thomas Benson, David Campbell, James Clarke, Robert Coulter, Sam Foster, Sam Gardiner, Derek Hussey, John Junkin, Peter King,... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Stoker: I support the motion. It is appropriate at this time because of uncertainty in the water industry. But it is not enough to reject water privatization without a credible argument to prove that it would be a disaster for all the people of... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Clarke: Over a century ago it was realized that water and sanitation were key elements in the fight against disease. It was recognized that the service must be not only readily available but also free of charge at the point of delivery. Fresh and... Friday October 1996Committee: Standing Committee B
Request from Standing Committee B to Extend Term of Reference Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Poots: There is no doubt that the Water Service is a vital public utility. Water is the most important natural resource in any country or household. We cannot do without it. Selling this resource, which has been publicly managed and funded, to a... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
2.30 pm Mr Hussey: I am not against privatization per se where there is appreciable benefit for the population. Unfortunately, what we are talking about - as has been said by Mr Foster - is a basic public utility. Indeed, water is vital. The... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Gaston: In the early seventies most water supplies were taken from reservoirs owned by local government agencies of one kind or another. When the Water Service of the Department of the Environment took over I cannot recollect any new reservoirs... Friday October 1996Committee: Standing Committee B
[Editors' Note: The request was passed to the Business Committee which recommended its adoption to the Forum on 25 October 1996.] Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Request from Standing Committee B to Extend Term of Reference Thursday October 1996Committee: Standing Committee B
Expand Terms of Reference of Standing Committee B Thursday October 1996Committee: Standing Committee B
[Editors' Note: The amendment was referred alongside the request to the Business Committee which recommended its adoption to the Forum on 25 October 1996.] Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McFarland: I am probably one of the few in the Forum today who have actually had utilities privatized — a painful process, I can tell you. Poll tax, then council tax, electricity, gas, water — they all crossed my doorstep in the early nineties. Some... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Security of Members Friday October 1996Committee: Standing Committee B
[Editors' Note: The amendment was referred alongside the request to the Business Committee which recommended its adoption to the Forum on 25 October 1996.] Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Forum Appointment of Four Committees (Standing Committee B) Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Expand Terms of Reference of Standing Committee B Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Appointment of a New Committee (Standing Committee E) Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
[The Deputy Chairperson:] Composition, terms of reference, and so on, will be put to the Forum formally next Friday. Thursday October 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
Appointment of a New Committee (Standing Committee E) Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
2.15 pm Mr Foster: The motion states that the Water Service is a vital public utility. I certainly concur. More important, however, is that water is vital to all of us, so we must ensure that it remains within the public realm. As another Member has... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Jim Rodgers: Being dropped off at the front door might be all right if you have a chauffeur-driven car. Many staff treat us with respect. That has to be recorded. I do not want anyone to take on board what Dr Paisley has said, because the members... Friday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
[The Deputy Chairperson:] Do I have the Forum's agreement to these measures? Members indicated assent. [Editors' Note: The Forum agreed, preliminarily, to the Business Committee Recommendations of the 24 October 1996. We have represented this by... Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Motion on Standing Committees Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
The Chairman: While I was away, I understand, the Forum took the decision to form an additional Committee to look at matters affecting the economy. If I may say so, that was a very wise decision. You have before you a motion which will formally create... Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Carrick: The Conservative Government's political dogma of privatization has been a raw experience. First, we had excessive consultancy costs, met out of the public purse, to promote ideology through general feasibility studies. Secondly, inordinate... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Actions on President of Republic of Ireland's Visit to Northern Ireland Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Motion on Standing Committees Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Resolved: [...] The Chairman: The first meeting of the new Committee will take place at 11.00 am on Thursday 7 November. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
[Editors' Note: By resolving the motion, the Forum agrees the changes to the Committees. We are representing this by referring motion to each of the Committees.] Friday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
Motion on Standing Committees Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee B
[Editors' Note: The events of this session are conjectural; although we know the subjects that were discussed and a rough overview of debate, the editors do not have a record of the meeting. Description text is taken from the Forum meeting on 1 November 1996.] Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
2.45 pm Mr McCartney: Unfortunately, I could not be present to hear some other Members. However, I have some private knowledge of the nature of their contributions. I do not intend to speak at length. Suffice it to say that I fully support the... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Neeson: Further to that point of order, Mr Chairman. I agree with the procedural issue that Mr Robinson has raised. You have allowed a very dangerous precedent to be established, and I would like a ruling. It is my understanding that under the Rules... Friday October 1996Committee: Standing Committee B
Motion on Standing Committees Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee B
[Editors' Note: These changes came into effect when the Forum resolved the motion.] Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee C
[Editors' Note: The events of this session are conjectural; although we know the subjects that were discussed and a rough overview of debate, the editors do not have a record of the meeting. Description text is taken from the Forum meetings on 1 and 8... Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee C
Motion on Standing Committees Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Trimble: It is a very good idea to have a debate on the Queen's Speech, and I look forward to the comments of other participants. The first point I want to make concerns the insensitivity of the draftsman who placed the reference to Northern... Friday October 1996Committee: Standing Committee D
[Editors' Note: The events of this session are conjectural; although we know the subjects that were discussed and a rough overview of debate, the editors do not have a record of the meeting. Description text is taken from the Forum meeting on 1 November 1996.] Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Rev Dr Ian Paisley: I do not think we can take any comfort whatsoever from anything the Prime Minister says. The Prime Minister is at this moment in cahoots with the Republic's Government to try to find a way to get Sinn Fein into these talks, and... Friday October 1996Committee: Standing Committee D
Motion on Standing Committees Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee D
[Editors' Note: These changes came into effect when the Forum resolved the motion.] Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Call to Order Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was called to order at 10.00am (Mr G Campbell in the chair). Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Two Minutes' Silence Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Members observed two minutes' silence. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
ELECTRICITY PRICES The Deputy Chairperson (Mr Gregory Campbell): The Chairman wrote to the Electricity Regulator on 14 October, as the Forum had requested, to express our concern at the cost of electricity in Northern Ireland. The Regulator has... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Nesbitt: At the end of his speech, Lord Alderdice talked about reality. He asked whether any other Government would be any different. And did we not think that we should be compromising? I shall come back to those matters in a moment. The lot of... Friday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
[The Deputy Chairman:] Secondly, the Business Committee agreed to recommend to the Forum that it accede to a request from Standing Committee B to extend its terms of reference to cover two additional areas of work — the pre-school voucher scheme and... Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Peter Robinson: Mr Nesbitt has at least proved that he reads the 'Belfast Telegraph'. That may not always be an edifying experience. The motion before the Forum is welcome. It gives us an excellent opportunity to consider a number of matters — not... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Ken Maginnis: The debate on the Queen's Speech should, I suppose, include other matters mentioned in the Speech. There are a number of questions, including international aid, that I would like an opportunity to address. Unfortunately, it is not... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Request from Standing Committee B to Extend Term of Reference Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Agreement on Business Committee Recommendations Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Members indicated assent. [Editors' Note: Members were only indicating assent because the Business Committee had not formally recommended any amendments, instead it appears that the Business Committee was giving notice of recommendations that would be... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Deputy Chairperson: May I thank the 13 Members who have spoken for their help in keeping to the time. It is entirely appropriate, given that there is a Londonderry person in the Chair, that the number should be 13. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was suspended at 12.23pm and resumed at 1.45pm. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Ian Paisley Jnr: May I say at the outset, Sir, what an exceptional job you are doing as Deputy Chairperson. I realize, of course, that flattery will get me absolutely nowhere with you. It is a pity that I have to follow such a poor speech. Mr... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McKee: Like other Members, I wish you well in your post today, Mr Chairman. You have done a very good job in seeing the business off to a good start. This could have been a very contentious issue, but you have certainly handled it well, and Members... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Stoker: It is a very refreshing change to see almost everyone in the Forum more or less agreeing. Councils are to be commended for their efforts in waste management, but these do not go far enough. We are only tinkering with the problem. It is... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Two Minutes' Silence Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Members observed two minutes' silence. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: Welcome to the 16th plenary meeting of the Forum. I am very glad to be back among you. I was delighted to hear how well Mr Ivan Davis and Mr Gregory Campbell had stood in for me during my absence. I understand that they performed their... Friday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee D
[Editors' Note: The events of this session are conjectural; although we know the subjects that were discussed and a rough overview of debate, the editors do not have a record of the meeting. Description text is taken from the Forum meeting on 1 November 1996.] Thursday October 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
[Editors' Note: This was the opening meeting of Standing Committee D (Agriculture and Fisheries Issues). They elected a Chairman and Vice-Chairman. Information on the membership of the Committee is taken from the Web Record of Debates and from... Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
The following Members shall comprise Standing Committee E: UUP — Mr Dermot Nesbitt (Chairperson, Mr Bob Stoker, Mr Jim Clarke, Mrs May Steele; DUP — Mr St Clair McAlister (Vice-Chairperson), Mr Samuel Wilson, Mr Eric Smyth, Mr Mervyn Carrick; Alliance... Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Carrick: I will be unable to repeat some of the poetic language that has come from Mr Junkin. However, I wish to complement several of the points that he has raised. I propose to deal with the management of waste in broad terms, as opposed to the... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Calvert: I support this very important motion. One of the principal reasons for my support is that Lisburn Borough Council, to which I was elected in 1985, has been to the forefront in developing centres to collect, sort and redistribute domestic... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Neeson: I support the motion, and I appreciate the opportunity to talk on this very important issue, which needs to be dealt with urgently and effectively. I recognize that local authorities in Northern Ireland have tried to take a very proactive... Friday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Motion on the Neil Latimer Case Thursday October 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
The following Members shall comprise Standing Committee E: UUP — Mr Dermot Nesbitt (Chairperson, Mr Bob Stoker, Mr Jim Clarke, Mrs May Steele; DUP — Mr St Clair McAlister (Vice-Chairperson), Mr Samuel Wilson, Mr Eric Smyth, Mr Mervyn Carrick; Alliance... Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
The following Members shall comprise Standing Committee E: UUP — Mr Dermot Nesbitt (Chairperson, Mr Bob Stoker, Mr Jim Clarke, Mrs May Steele; DUP — Mr St Clair McAlister (Vice-Chairperson), Mr Samuel Wilson, Mr Eric Smyth, Mr Mervyn Carrick; Alliance... Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
The following Members shall comprise Standing Committee E: UUP — Mr Dermot Nesbitt (Chairperson, Mr Bob Stoker, Mr Jim Clarke, Mrs May Steele; DUP — Mr St Clair McAlister (Vice-Chairperson), Mr Samuel Wilson, Mr Eric Smyth, Mr Mervyn Carrick; Alliance... Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
The following Members shall comprise Standing Committee E: UUP — Mr Dermot Nesbitt (Chairperson, Mr Bob Stoker, Mr Jim Clarke, Mrs May Steele; DUP — Mr St Clair McAlister (Vice-Chairperson), Mr Samuel Wilson, Mr Eric Smyth, Mr Mervyn Carrick; Alliance... Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Hussey: Before addressing the motion, may I say how pleased I am to see a fellow westerner in the Chair. It reflects well on the Forum that we can treat the Chair with the respect that it deserves, from whatever political quarter we come. Perhaps,... Friday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Mr Ian Paisley Jnr: I welcome the decision by the Forum to debate this important matter, and I ask Members to welcome to the Forum one of the members of the "UDR four", Mr James Hegan, who is in the Public Gallery. I am very pleased to see that Neil... Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Ms Sagar: The basis of any civil society must surely be a justice system which offers fair and equal treatment to all and which, when it makes mistakes, allows for these to be addressed. There have been a number of cases in Britain and Northern Ireland... Friday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
The following Members shall comprise Standing Committee E: UUP — Mr Dermot Nesbitt (Chairperson, Mr Bob Stoker, Mr Jim Clarke, Mrs May Steele; DUP — Mr St Clair McAlister (Vice-Chairperson), Mr Samuel Wilson, Mr Eric Smyth, Mr Mervyn Carrick; Alliance... Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
The following Members shall comprise Standing Committee E: UUP — Mr Dermot Nesbitt (Chairperson, Mr Bob Stoker, Mr Jim Clarke, Mrs May Steele; DUP — Mr St Clair McAlister (Vice-Chairperson), Mr Samuel Wilson, Mr Eric Smyth, Mr Mervyn Carrick; Alliance... Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
The following Members shall comprise Standing Committee E: UUP — Mr Dermot Nesbitt (Chairperson, Mr Bob Stoker, Mr Jim Clarke, Mrs May Steele; DUP — Mr St Clair McAlister (Vice-Chairperson), Mr Samuel Wilson, Mr Eric Smyth, Mr Mervyn Carrick; Alliance... Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Shannon: This issue affects every person and every household in Northern Ireland. The scarcity of land for waste disposal confronts every one of us. I should like to mention some of the things that we have done in the Ards Borough Council area. We... Friday October 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
The following Members shall comprise Standing Committee E: UUP — Mr Dermot Nesbitt (Chairperson, Mr Bob Stoker, Mr Jim Clarke, Mrs May Steele; DUP — Mr St Clair McAlister (Vice-Chairperson), Mr Samuel Wilson, Mr Eric Smyth, Mr Mervyn Carrick; Alliance... Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
The following Members shall comprise Standing Committee E: UUP — Mr Dermot Nesbitt (Chairperson, Mr Bob Stoker, Mr Jim Clarke, Mrs May Steele; DUP — Mr St Clair McAlister (Vice-Chairperson), Mr Samuel Wilson, Mr Eric Smyth, Mr Mervyn Carrick; Alliance... Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
The following Members shall comprise Standing Committee E: UUP — Mr Dermot Nesbitt (Chairperson, Mr Bob Stoker, Mr Jim Clarke, Mrs May Steele; DUP — Mr St Clair McAlister (Vice-Chairperson), Mr Samuel Wilson, Mr Eric Smyth, Mr Mervyn Carrick; Alliance... Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Dodds: First of all, I agree with something that was said by Mr Junkin about the way in which this whole issue should be approached. It is wrong that waste disposal should be driven by operators, as has been attempted in some cases. The approach... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Gibson: I feel a wee bit like the fellow who says "I'm livin' in Drumlister and I'm clabber to the knee." When this debate is over I'll still be living in Drumlister, only the clabber will be wetter — we had a lot of rain last night. Having... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Casey rose. The Chairman: The first person who got up to look for a chance to speak was Mr Hugh Smyth. So, if you do not mind, I will call him. Mr Casey: May I beg your indulgence, Mr Chairman. My colleague and I have to leave after lunch, and I... Friday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
The following Members shall comprise Standing Committee E: UUP — Mr Dermot Nesbitt (Chairperson, Mr Bob Stoker, Mr Jim Clarke, Mrs May Steele; DUP — Mr St Clair McAlister (Vice-Chairperson), Mr Samuel Wilson, Mr Eric Smyth, Mr Mervyn Carrick; Alliance... Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
The following Members shall comprise Standing Committee E: UUP — Mr Dermot Nesbitt (Chairperson, Mr Bob Stoker, Mr Jim Clarke, Mrs May Steele; DUP — Mr St Clair McAlister (Vice-Chairperson), Mr Samuel Wilson, Mr Eric Smyth, Mr Mervyn Carrick; Alliance... Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
The following Members shall comprise Standing Committee E: UUP — Mr Dermot Nesbitt (Chairperson, Mr Bob Stoker, Mr Jim Clarke, Mrs May Steele; DUP — Mr St Clair McAlister (Vice-Chairperson), Mr Samuel Wilson, Mr Eric Smyth, Mr Mervyn Carrick; Alliance... Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
The following Members shall comprise Standing Committee E: UUP — Mr Dermot Nesbitt (Chairperson, Mr Bob Stoker, Mr Jim Clarke, Mrs May Steele; DUP — Mr St Clair McAlister (Vice-Chairperson), Mr Samuel Wilson, Mr Eric Smyth, Mr Mervyn Carrick; Alliance... Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McKee: Much has been said in this debate about waste and the problems that flow from it. As one who has been on a council for 24 years, I have spent much time discussing these matters. When a dump is about to close and another one is about to open,... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
EUROPEAN UNION (POLITICAL INTEGRATION) Debate resumed on amendment to motion (1 November 1996): This Forum notes with concern the federalist ambitions of some member states of the European Union. As elected, but powerless, representatives of the... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
REPUBLIC OF IRELAND: REMEMBRANCE Rev Dr Ian Paisley: Further to your remarks, Mr Chairman, may I say that I think it would be appropriate if the representatives of various bodies who travelled to the Somme, or we ourselves, were to arrange to lay a... Friday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
The Chairman: I understand that Mr McAlister would like to say a few words, in the absence of Mr Nesbitt, who was yesterday elected as Chairman of the Committee. Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
[The Chairman:] Mr McAlister was elected Vice-Chairman Thursday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
Review of the Beef Industry Crisis in Northern Ireland (Interim Report) Thursday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
The Chairman: We now turn to the presentation of the interim report from Standing Committee D on the BSE crisis. [Editors' Note: The report was passed to the Business Committee which added it to Forum's Order of Business for 1 November 1996. Note that... Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Review of the Beef Industry Crisis in Northern Ireland (Interim Report) Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Trimble: May I begin by congratulating Mr Paisley on having secured this debate, and also on the way in which he has opened it. I agree with what he has said. I agree particularly with his comments about the innocence of Neil Latimer. Neil Latimer... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McCartney: I am certainly not afraid to talk. I am totally willing to talk, but I am not prepared to talk, or indeed to play, when the cards in the deck are completely stacked. Mr Nesbitt: When the cards are stacked against me I regard it as a... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Correction to Two Typographical Errors in Paragraph 3.1.26 Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
[Mr David Campbell:] These corrections will be made in the final version. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: I have the task of forwarding the interim report to the Minister responsible for agriculture in Northern Ireland, the Baroness Denton, with the request that she give serious consideration to all its recommendations. I shall be very happy... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McBride: I welcome the revisions which have made it possible for Alliance Members to support the motion. We need to acknowledge that the judicial system in Northern Ireland has done very well in extraordinarily difficult circumstances over the last... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was suspended at 11.10 am and resumed at 11.20 am. Friday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
[Editors' Note: The events of this session are conjectural; although we know the subjects that were discussed and a rough overview of debate, the editors do not have a record of the meeting. Description text is taken from the Forum Record of Debates on... Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Statement from Neil Latimer Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was suspended at 12.30 pm and resumed at 1.48 pm. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Question put and agreed to. Resolved: [...] Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The debate stood adjourned until Friday 8 November 1996. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
HOUSING POLICY REVIEW The Chairman: I seek the Forum's indulgence to make a personal statement. The Forum will recall its housing debate of 20 and 27 September, which resulted in a resolution asking the Government to withhold any decision on the... Friday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
[Editors' Note: The events of this session are conjectural; although we know the subjects that were discussed and a rough overview of debate, the editors do not have a record of the meeting. Description text is taken from the Forum Record of Debates on... Friday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
Motion to Approve Standing Committee E Membership Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McCartney: I endorse and fully support the contents of this motion, which has been revised by agreement. It is couched in terms which should engender the support of all of those present who value the ideal of justice. I can bring to this discussion... Friday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
The Chairman: Rules 14(2) requires Forum approval of the membership of the new Committee on the economy. A motion listing the members is the second item on the Order Paper. Friday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
[The Deputy Chairperson:] Do I have the Forum's agreement to these measures? Members indicated assent. [Editors' Note: The Forum agreed, preliminarily, to the Business Committee Recommendations of the 24 October 1996. We have represented this by... Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Peter Robinson: May I congratulate my colleague Mr Paisley, not only for being successful in introducing this motion but also for the manner in which he did so and for the very broad measure of agreement that the proposal is receiving in the... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Motion to Approve Standing Committee E Membership Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
FORUM: STANDING COMMITTEE E Resolved: [...] Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Shannon: I support the amendment put forward by the DUP. Since 1973, when the United Kingdom joined the Common Market, the European Parliament has featured increasingly in the life of everyone in the country. This is particularly the case in... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Vote on Motion on European Union: Alliance Amendment Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Members indicated assent. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The Ayes and Noes having been registered by show of hands, the Chairman declared that the Noes had it. Question accordingly negatived. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was suspended at 11.51 am and resumed at 12.06 pm. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Gibson: I support the motion, and I want to mention some background information about this case. First of all, I want to pay tribute to the various families involved. They have found themselves in a terrible position. For years, the finger of... Friday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
Investigation into the Proposed Fluoridation of Water Supplies in Northern Ireland (Interim Report) Friday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
The Chairman: As we have a quarter of an hour before the lunch break, we shall begin the debate on the interim report of Standing Committee C. [Editors' Note: The report was passed to the Business Committee which added it to Forum's Order of Business... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Investigation into the Proposed Fluoridation of Water Supplies in Northern Ireland (Interim Report) Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Labour Proposals on Fluoridation of Water Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Schedule for the Afternoon Debate Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Jim Rodgers: Most of the things that I wanted to say have already been said. I should, however, like to press home some of the points that Mr Gibson has made. There is no doubt that the reason these four members of the Ulster Defence Regiment were... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mrs Beattie: On this the anniversary of the Anglo-Irish Agreement, I too oppose resolutely any role or say for Dublin in the internal affairs of Northern Ireland. I cannot acquiesce in the Anglo-Irish diktat, which gives foreign politicians in the... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was suspended at 1.09 pm and resumed at 2.17 pm. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Business Agenda for Following Session Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Extension of Sitting Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Several Members: No. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Adjourn Special Debate until the Following Week Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: Is that agreeable to you all? It was so decided. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Peter Robinson: I have one concern. We have an important motion next week. A carry-over of this debate would have to be time-limited so that we would not reduce the time available for debate on the Anglo-Irish Agreement. Mr Ken Maginnis: Dr... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McMichael: I agree with all the comments that have been made already. It has all, more or less, been said. I want to praise the work of the UDR Four Committee for its diligence in pursuing the cases of the "UDR four" and now that of Neil Latimer. I... Friday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
[Editors' Note: The events of this session are conjectural; although we know the subjects that were discussed and a rough overview of debate, the editors do not have a record of the meeting. Description text is taken from the Forum meeting on 15 November 1996.] Thursday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
[Editors' Note: The events of this session are conjectural; although we know the subjects that were discussed and a rough overview of debate, the editors do not have a record of the meeting. Description text is taken from the Forum Record of Debates on... Thursday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
[Editors' Note: The letter was copied to all Members prior to the Forum meeting on the 15 November 1996.] Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Dodds: I welcome the withdrawal of the Ulster Unionist Party's amendment. Mr Nesbitt referred to his dislike of the term "Anglo-Irish", though I see that it was the amendment. Maybe that is one of the reasons for the withdrawal. The Anglo-Irish... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Ian Paisley Jnr: I think that every Unionist comes to this debate with a heavy heart. We do not come here in triumphalist mood, as Mr Close would have it. We do not come here to celebrate the Anglo-Irish Agreement; we come here to mourn the fact... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The meeting was suspended at 12.30 pm and resumed at 1.30 pm. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McAlister: I want to add my voice in support of my party's motion. I welcome the comments that have been made by the United Kingdom Unionists, the Ulster Unionists and Members from my own party. What a stark contrast there is between those comments... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Request for Chairman's Ruling on Heckling Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Calvert: I would like to thank my Colleague Mr Paisley for the excellent manner in which he brought this motion forward but also for the way he spoke to it. Given what Mr Rodgers has said, I want to tell him that there are no bad apples in this... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Brewster: On this auspicious — rather, inauspicious — date Members will be only too well aware of the launch of the book 'The Ulster Unionist Party 1972-92' by Dr David Hume, a distinguished academic who is in the Forum today - £8.50, available from... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: I think you have to accept that heckling is a good parliamentary practice. I encourage it. There is a difference between heckling and the absence of order. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: Let us wait until he returns. [Editors' Note: The Chairman doesn't appear to make a ruling to reject or adopt the point of order but suggests they first wait until McCartney returns.] Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Members to Shorten Speeches Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Democracy in the Chamber Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
[The Chairman:] On the second point, I accept that it is an unusual form of democracy that someone should be given the papal powers to which you referred this morning. Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Donaldson: I support the motion, and I add my words of appreciation to those of the people who have, for a long time now, campaigned for justice in this case. I thank Mr Paisley for the opportunity to debate the matter today. We have heard some... Friday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee B
[Editors' Note: The events of this session are conjectural; although we know the subjects that were discussed and a rough overview of debate, the editors do not have a record of the meeting. Description text is taken from the Forum meeting on 22 November 1996.] Thursday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
[Editors' Note: The events of this session are conjectural; although we know the subjects that were discussed and a rough overview of debate, the editors do not have a record of the meeting. Description text is taken from the Forum Record of Debates on... Thursday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
Review of Education Administration in Northern Ireland (Education and Library Boards) Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McKee: There have been many fine speeches today. They have opened the case up and dealt with the issues. I believe they have proven that Neil Latimer and his colleagues were innocent. Some eminent people have spoken on this matter over the years —... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mrs I Robinson: I rise to support the DUP motion. I welcome the opportunity to reaffirm my continued opposition to the infamous and hated Anglo-Irish diktat. It can never, and will never, be accepted by any right-thinking person, whether Unionist or... Friday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
Mr Gibson: I beg to move the following motion: That the Forum adopts the final report on education administration in Northern Ireland (education and library boards), prepared by Standing Committee B, and decides to forward it to the Minister... Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McAlister: I consider it a privilege to lend my support to this motion. I want to thank my Colleague Mr Paisley for bringing it forward. No doubt the whole House is grateful to him for all his interest in the case. He is a foundation member of the... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Review of Education Administration in Northern Ireland (Education and Library Boards) Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Neeson: It seems to me that the Ulster Unionists are just like the Ulster Tories, except in respect of Ulster Tory policy. As a part of the EPP Group in Europe, they are prepared to accept anything from that body, except its policy. The purpose of... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Ms McWilliams: The last time I heard such anti-European Union sentiments, they came from the Communist Party of Ireland, to whose anti-European stance I would never subscribe. When I heard Mr Alcock's speech I was reminded, with some concern, of that... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McKee: The Anglo-Irish Agreement is still there, 11 years on, but the Ulster Unionists' spirit has not dampened any. I remember, as a young man in my early forties, opposing the Anglo-Irish Agreement. I remember being trailed out of the Northern... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McAlister: Last week this debate was ably opened by Mr Alcock, and other Members took part. Unfortunately, when a debate runs over, there can be a little disorientation. However, other Members will no doubt take up the challenge. I support the... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Campbell: Given the time, I will endeavour to be neither long nor repetitious. The rationale that underpinned the Anglo-Irish Agreement was the need to bolster the SDLP, to ward off the increasing support for Sinn Fein — so we were told. I totally... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McCartney: I support the motion moved by the Ulster Unionist Party and the amendment proposed by the Democratic Unionist Party. In the decision whether or not the United Kingdom should join a European monetary union, certain key issues must be... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McCartney: Political implications are driving an economic project the preparation for which has been highly detrimental to western Europe in terms of employment. There is a similarity here with the national project in Ireland, the economic impact... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Rev Dr Ian Paisley: This has been an interesting debate. It is good that we are preaching to the converted. Some time ago people and parties were greatly divided upon this issue. I have here the handbook of the European People's Party, to whose Group... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
[Mr Curran:] I preface my remarks by referring to the ruling that you gave this morning, Mr Chairman, under Rule 14. You will recall that on 19 July I said that it was the desire of my party to ensure the continuation of the Forum and to ensure that it... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McCartney: May I say at the outset that I wholeheartedly support the motion. There are certain fundamental principles that everyone here should take on board. The Anglo-Irish Agreement was imposed in a totally undemocratic way. The world and his... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Close: I must express a certain degree of surprise at this motion. Let Members cast their minds back to November 1985 and reflect for a moment on the debates, comments, various promises and threats of that time. Following all the bluster about... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Peter Robinson: The central issue now is decommissioning. What did the Deputy Leader of the Ulster Unionist Party say on that subject? This is what he had to say when asked about it in an RTE interview: "If Members of an elected body had a mandate... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Nesbitt: I agree with the description "Anglo-Irish diktat", but if I were a true pedant I should probably say that "all-Irish process" would be more accurate than "Anglo-Irish process". In 1920 a Council of Ireland was set up to try to resolve this... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Cedric Wilson: I support and fully endorse the sentiments expressed in the motion. I believe that it is not just a motion for those who come from the three main Unionist groups represented here today but, indeed, one that this entire body should be... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Gibson: I support the motion because I see in the Anglo-Irish Agreement the outcome and the evolution of thinking that has pervaded the British diplomatic corps for about a century and a quarter. History tells us that when William Ewart Gladstone... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Alcock: One of the many flaws in the Anglo-Irish Agreement was the belief of the British Government that it would provide reconciliation between the two traditions in Northern Ireland and — more than that — that those of the Nationalist tradition... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Junkin: During the Second World War, remembered last week at cenotaphs all over the United Kingdom and other parts of the free world, the British Government committed millions of service people — men and women — to the task of defending to the death... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: I have some serious things to say. On 27 September you were all very pleased when I came back from negotiations with the Secretary of State. I had got the title and the Rules. Everything was agreed, but there was one snag. I asked you to... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
1.45 pm Mr Hussey: In 1985 we were assured of security. Mrs Thatcher promised us peace, stability and reconciliation, and in Parliament on 26 November of the same year Mr King made the following statement, in which Mr Shannon and many other Members... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Eric Smyth: I rise to support the motion. It concerns me that as we talk about the future of Northern Ireland certain parties are prepared to let the constitution of the province be discussed at the talks. We are told that the Union and the... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Jim Rodgers: I support the motion. We should be reading the Anglo-Irish Agreement repeatedly, just to see to what extent it is working. I have heard some politicians saying over a number of years that the diktat is dead and buried, but whenever I... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Tom Robinson: I rise to support the motion. It is 11 years since the Anglo-Irish Agreement was signed. In order to look forward, it is necessary at times to look back. We have a generation of young people growing up today who are not familiar with... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Sammy Wilson: I wish to support the motion. It is significant that 11 years after the Anglo-Irish Agreement was signed we are still, as Unionists, expressing clear-cut opposition to what was done that November. The scandal is that, despite the... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
3.45 pm Mr Empey: May I, first of all, say that I deeply regret that a number of parties are not represented here at this stage of the debate. It must be obvious, despite the bouts of good humour, that for Members on both sides of the Chamber the... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Motion to Adopt the Report on Education Administration Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Foster: The matter that I want to raise is one of concern to the people of County Fermanagh. It is a workers' problem, and I am bringing it before the Forum because of the manner in which — especially given the low level of employment and pay —... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McCartney: I put it to the Forum, on behalf of my party, that any new cease-fire declared by Sinn Fein/IRA must be complete in nature and permanent in duration. The issues of an IRA cease-fire and of decommissioning are central to the present talks... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McMichael: I rise to support Unison, the health-care union, which has declared that it will strike in various areas of the province. I am aware of action in Enniskillen and in the Down and Lisburn Trust area on the issue of staff being mishandled by... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Jim Rodgers: I would like to bring to the attention of the Forum the decision by the Training and Employment Agency to stop recruitment to the adult jobskills programme, which superseded the youth training and job training programme. This decision... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Cedric Wilson: Probably like many other Members, when I was thinking about a subject for this debate I had great difficulty in selecting the one that I thought was of greatest importance. Most Members will probably agree — and I do not wish to... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mrs I Robinson: I wish to use my five minutes to highlight the plight of a part of my constituency of Strangford — Comber. I regret that Mr John Taylor has just removed himself from the Forum. He could have stayed to hear what I am about to... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr David Campbell: As we approach the seventy-eighth anniversary of the Armistice, I would like to draw the Forum's attention to a Royal British Legion campaign. It has two aims. The first is reinstatement of the national two-minute silence at 11.00 am... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
[Mr McFarland:] First, why is it that the Department of Education was not able enthusiastically to come forward with clear, detailed proposals, backed up by a thorough appraisal of the downstream effects of its plan? It is obvious that, for whatever... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Neeson: Over the past two weeks Oliver's army — as we have come to be known— has been beavering away to meet the very tight deadline set by the Minister for the provision of this report. I support the interim report and pay tribute to the Chairman,... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Hussey: Like other Members, I congratulate the Chairman, Vice-Chairman and other Committee members and the staff who have supported us. I wish to address a particular issue — stability. Yesterday afternoon I left my job as a teacher. On Monday... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Curran: First, I want to join in the tribute to the staff of the Forum, in particular Ms Benson. The Civil Service really gave its best when it gave us Ms Benson as Clerk of the Committee. I also want to join in the tributes paid to the... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Rev Trevor Kirkland: I too would like to pay tribute to all those who have been involved in the preparation of this report. It goes without saying that education is a burning issue, but it will do no harm constantly to remind people. The fact that this... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McMichael: I also pay tribute to the sterling efforts of the Chairman, Vice-Chairman and staff. I fully support the contents of this interim report and support its adoption by the Forum. 10.45 am Listening to the submissions of the various... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Cedric Wilson: I congratulate the Chairman of the Education Committee on an excellent and thorough report. As Chairman of one of the Committees, I am sure members of other Committees will be forthright in their praise of Mr Gibson and his... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Ms Sagar: The Northern Ireland Women's Coalition would also like to support this interim report, and we congratulate all those people involved, to whom tribute has already been paid. We would like to ask this question: what is the Department's policy... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Vote on Alliance Amendment to the Statement on Multi-Party Talks at Stormont Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Forum divided: Ayes 2 (4%); Noes 46; Abstentions 5. Ayes: Lord Alderdice, Steve McBride. Noes: Anthony Alcock, May Beattie, Robert Bolton, David Brewster, David Browne, Cecil Calvert, David Campbell, Mervyn Carrick, James Clarke, Wilson Clyde,... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
1.00 pm Mr McCartney: But this is not entirely to denigrate the economic performance of the Republic over the past few years. The credibility of the island-economy project is sustained not only by statistical distortion but also by failure to take... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
[Mr Neeson:] The bomb on Monday was timed to coincide with the opening of the Pittsburgh conference. One reflects on the euphoria of the Washington conference last year, when at long last we seemed to have found a way to deal with the problems and to... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
[Mr McCartney:] The motion very correctly focuses on what is required to secure the future strength of the Northern Ireland economy: the growth and competitiveness of locally owned industry, combined with the attractions of high-technology... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McCartney: At this point the politics become clear. Prof Teague argues that proposals ostensibly for economic harmonization are best understood — and this is the punch phrase — "as surrogates for the building of new constitutional arrangements on... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Junkin: Many horrible things have been done to Northern Ireland by those who try and have tried to destabilize it. The IRA, supported by Sinn Fein, has murdered people working for their own firms and burned and bombed as many businesses as possible.... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Bolton: This motion, though short and couched in simple terms, is one of the most important, if not the most important, that the Forum has had before it. I have been very enlightened by Members' excellent contributions. No one can dispute the need... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Ms Sagar: The Northern Ireland Women's Coalition recognizes the strong relationship between political stability and economic stability. We support the motion and the amendment. I will try not to repeat what other people have said, though that is... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: The next Member to speak is Mr Gaston — if he can keep his eyes open. He has been travelling all night from Pittsburgh — non-stop — and has had no sleep. We welcome him back and look forward to hearing what he has to say. Mr Gaston:... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: Would you live with that? Mr Empey: We have no objection to the inclusion of "the Government". All politicians, but especially the Government, have a role. The amendment was meant to be inclusive. The words "the Government", used alone,... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Jim Rodgers: Mr Chairman, it is not very often that I disagree with you, but a few weeks ago you talked about how well the economy was performing. Mr Hugh Smyth was a bit surprised when he got up to speak, and I certainly do not agree with you. I am... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Casey: I support the amendment. I come from two towns that do not exist and a city which has not yet been built. The booklet 'Facts and Figures', produced by the IDB and the Northern Ireland Partnership, makes no mention of Lurgan, Portadown or... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Clarke: I am very concerned about the loss of our manufacturing base, particularly in the clothing industry, which is in a state of crisis. Northern Ireland's clothing industry gives employment to a large proportion of the population. The number of... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
[Mr Gibson:] My Committee will not descend to taking part in any knee-jerk reaction to the Minister's response, nor will we engage on any rubbishy pronouncements from the Department on our interim report. The Committee has taken a very considered view.... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Robert John White: I support the amendment. If what I have to say is rather different, I hope Members will forgive me. I do intend to be serious, but poking a little fun at the beginning will do no harm. Coleraine is a blackspot. Mr Bolton has... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McKee: I support the motion. There have been some very good speeches today— well prepared, well delivered and containing much food for thought. I must confess that Iam no expert in economic matters. Many people would say that I am not an expert in... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Morrow: Mr Hussey said that unemployment and terrorism go hand in hand. I do not for one moment accept that. There are many good people who are unemployed — decent, upright citizens. [Interruption] I do not think I have misquoted the Member. Anyway,... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
[Rev Dr Ian Paisley:] I support what the Chairman of the Education Committee has said. The attitude that the Minister took is regrettable. He knew perfectly well that he had not given the Committee time to put in a proper report, that this was an... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
4.15 pm Mr Gibson: Let us get back to the motion and the amendment. We are trying to discuss the idea of developing a long-term strategy for expansion and the creation of jobs. This morning we heard an erudite exposition on Quigleyism. The one-island... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Stewart: Mr Rodgers mentioned people doing the double. Surely he realizes that they include citizens of the Irish Republic who register here. Mr Jim Rodgers: I did not say who the people were. The Member should take that on board — though I... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Empey: The debate has shown quite clearly that Members take their role very seriously. Many have clearly done very thorough research. There have been some excellent contributions. Mr McAlister's opening speech was very fine. It was well researched... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
11.30 am Mr Eric Smyth: I support the motion. Like Mr Hugh Smyth, I work hard on the Shankill. We can all quote statistics, but the reality is that these schemes are not working. They only penalize the good people who want to work but cannot find... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Curran: I support the motion. While I do not disagree with the sentiments of the second sentence in the amendment — I am of the opinion, and every party in the House ought to be of the opinion, that we should seek to prevent fraud wherever it could... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
The Deputy Chairperson: Mr Ervine, do you wish to use your right of reply? Mr Ervine: Merely to say that I do not accuse the Ulster Unionists of being Tories. I respect the Ulster Unionist Party as an amalgam of people whose purpose is to defend the... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Bolton: I wish simply to add my voice in support of the motion. I am indebted to many Members who have spoken for supplying so many facts and figures. My comments will be of a more general nature. It is fitting that this business comes after the... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Eric Smyth: I too am against the privatization of water. Nobody has the right to sell off water, which is God-given and belongs to the people. That is the point which some folk forget. Ratepayers and taxpayers built the Water Service, and it would... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mrs Beattie: As a working-class housewife, I am acutely aware of the effect that water privatization could have on the family unit. Having observed some of the horrendous hardships endured by people on the mainland, I am concerned that conditions... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Ms Sagar: The Northern Ireland Women's Coalition feels that the theoretical benefits of privatization — extended choice and competition reflected in reduced prices and better service for consumers — will not materialize. As we have already heard,... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McKee: Like other Members, I will be very brief. Public representatives should lend their voice to this debate and oppose the privatization of the Water Service. I detest this Government because of its policy of privatization. There are others who... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Calvert: I welcome this opportunity to discuss the very important issue of water privatization. I am totally against the privatization of water and sewerage services in Northern Ireland. Privatization results in the loss of jobs. I live about half... Friday October 1996Committee: Business Committee
Security of Members Thursday October 1996Committee: The Forum
WRONG OLD Business Committee Recommendations on Operation of Standing Committees. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Business Committee Preliminary Recommendations on Operation of Standing Committees. Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Ms McWilliams: I apologize for being absent earlier when I was called. There are only two of us, and I sometimes wonder if people wish that there were even fewer. I was very pleased to hear that the Ulster Unionist Party is committed to the talks, but... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Rev Trevor Kirkland: I cannot agree with the Gentleman from Knock, or with the MP from Fermanagh, who, having taken an ostrich-like approach to the affairs of Northern Ireland, attempt some osmosis in order to fool the rest of us. The Queen's Speech... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Morrow: "Waste disposal" is a very emotive phrase. Particularly in the part of the world that I come from, it means different things to different people. I do not want to bore the Forum with what happens in Dungannon — it would be better if it did... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mrs Steele: I want briefly to back up what Mr Neeson said about the Magheramorne quarry. he gave many details, which I will not go into again. I want to bring to the Forum's attention the great concern in the east Antrim area about the proposed use of... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Stewart: I support the motion. I live in one of the best parts of Northern Ireland — Portrush. If anyone wanted to put a dump anywhere, it would not be Portrush, especially Craigahulliar, an area of natural beauty, with its view of the beautiful... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
[Mr David Campbell:] It is my privilege, on behalf of the Standing Committee responsible for agriculture and fisheries issues, to present the interim report on the BSE crisis and its effects on our beef industry. I wish at the outset to record the... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Davis: There are two very important things we have learnt this afternoon. From Mr Morrow and Mr Gibson we heard about the wonderful co-operation between Dungannon and Omagh, and from Mr Calvert we heard that King William had a very valuable part to... Friday October 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Clyde: First, I support all that my Colleagues Mr Poots and Mr Shannon said about the Committee Chairman, Mr Campbell, and about Mr Barnes and Mrs Barclay. They did a tremendous job. I want to say a word or two about BSE flagging. In Northern... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
[Mr David Campbell:] I urge Members to study the background and the evidence. Let them not underestimate the effects of this crisis on Northern Ireland. The disaster that has visited itself upon our farms, through no fault of farmers, is exactly that —... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Poots: May I commence by commending Mr Campbell for his chairmanship of the Committee and his steady stewardship. I concur with his comments as regards the Secretariat, who worked so hard and were always so pleasant, easy to deal with and helpful. I... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Ms McWilliams: We too would like to acknowledge the work undertaken by the Standing Committee on the beef industry crisis. We recognize the harm that it has done to farmers and the industry in Northern Ireland. We also acknowledge the huge importance... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Junkin: The independent television programme 'Emmerdale' brings into our homes a rosy picture of agricultural activities, and it is too easy to think that stock farmers have an idyllic time, spent mostly in the local public house. But that is just... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Nesbitt: I support the adoption of this report and, like all other Members, congratulate the Chairman, Vice-chairman and other members of the Committee for the work they have done. I want briefly to draw attention to a few points. Paragraph 3.1.2.... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Shannon: I concur with the comments that have already been made. I congratulate and thank Mr Barnes and Mrs Barclay for their help and kindness, and Mr Campbell for his chairmanship. Mr Campbell conducted business with a fairly strong hand, at the... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McCartney: I propose to speak relatively briefly on this issue, and I would like to begin by commending Mr Campbell and his Committee for the excellence of the report that they have prepared. One of the criticisms levied against the Forum is that... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Letter From Malcolm Moss, Minister Responsible for Housing Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Curran: Good morning, Mr Chairman, and welcome back. I hope you had a nice break. May I assure you that your deputies did an excellent job in your absence. The place did not collapse! May I join in the commendation of Mr Campbell and his Committee... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McCarthy: I rise to seek the support of Forum Members for the Committee's report. As the Alliance Party's representative on the Committee, I would like to pay tribute to every member for knuckling down to the task. We all worked extremely well... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Neeson: I appreciate the Minister's response to the Forum debate on this issue, but I am afraid that it is very selective. And I welcome your intervention, Mr Chairman, bearing in mind your long experience in this field. The Minister makes the point... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Rev Dr Ian Paisley: I would like to associate myself with the remarks of other Members on the good work that the Chairman and his Committee have been enabled to do on this very important matter - a crisis in our economy. Farmers in the rest of the... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: It is only 12.21. Would you like to speak now, Mr Smyth? Mr Hugh Smyth: There seem to be a lot of hungry men here, so I will be very brief. May I, first of all, congratulate Mr Paisley Jnr on bringing this motion to the Forum. He... Friday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
Difficulty of Small Parties Attending Standing Committee Meetings Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Difficulty of Small Parties Attending Standing Committee Meetings Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
10.15 am The Chairman: I understand that Mr McAlister would like to say a few words, in the absence of Mr Nesbitt, who was yesterday elected as Chairman of the Committee. Mr McAlister was elected Vice-Chairman. Mr McAlister: I am deputizing for Mr... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Cedric Wilson: I should like to join those Members who have paid tribute to the Chairman of the Health Committee and to endorse in full the Committee's proposal. In doing so, may I say a special word of thanks to Mr Gardiner and to my colleague... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Tom Robinson: As Mr McAlister has said, it is sometimes difficult to pick up the threads of a debate that is carried over. However, I should like to take this opportunity to congratulate Mr Alcock, who proposed the motion on behalf of the Ulster... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Poots: I support the motion with the amendment proposed by Mr Dodds. When the United Kingdom joined the EEC in 1973 the then Prime Minister, Ted Heath, told the nation that it would end unemployment. Remarkably enough, the dole queues grew from... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
11.00 am Mr Weir: I have great pleasure in supporting the motion, with the proposed amendment. Mr Shannon made three main points. As a good Presbyterian, I am always glad to follow a three-point speech or sermon, so I commend the Member's words. I... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
1.00 pm Mr McMichael: I should like to thank Mr Frank McCoubrey for representing me so well on the Committee which examined this issue and to pass on his tribute to the Committee's Chairman and support staff for the work they have done in preparing... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr King: I support the motion and the amendment so admirably proposed by Mr Dodds. I do so not out of any sense of xenophobia but, rather, out of deep and real affection for our United Kingdom democracy and deep concern for its future. I have to put... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
[Mr Hugh Smyth:] Mr Chairman, may I first of all thank you for all your help and support. I should also like to thank very sincerely my Committee members and, in particular, the Vice-Chairman, Mr Gardiner, for his assistance in conducting some meetings... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Gardiner: May I start by paying tribute to Mr Hugh Smyth for his able and wise leadership of the Committee and to Mr Arnold and the secretariat for their support and dedicated work in overcoming the many obstacles. I am fortunate to have had the... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McAlister: I support the decision of the Australian Government to deny Gerry Adams an entry visa, and I commend them for their courageous stand against terrorism. I suppose that as citizens of a Christian country — Christian in broad terms — we do... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Gregory Campbell: I join in the tribute paid to the Chairman of the Health Committee, Mr Hugh Smyth, and to the Committee Clerk, Mr Denis Arnold, for the diligent work that was undertaken to produce this report. Let me put the matter in its proper... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Close: Fluoridation has been an emotive subject over a protracted period. For years it appeared that the people of Northern Ireland were in many respects going to be ignored, that their views would not even be sought. Then, for a variety of reasons,... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
12.45 pm Ms McWilliams: We too support the recommendation of the Health Committee that the fluoridation of water supplies should be deferred. I do not think that what the Labour Party is suggesting is very different from what Mr Close is suggesting,... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Thomas Robinson: I commend the report to the Forum. I want to refer to a couple of issues which have been mentioned by other Members. First, I want to repudiate the points put forward by Mr Curran for Labour. Everyone was given a fair opportunity... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McCarthy: I want to speak about the shame of so-called savings on service and safety. So-called savings are more accurately described as savage cut-backs, particularly when they concern the health service and are made by the Government, who have... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Rev Dr Ian Paisley: Mr McCartney has brought a very serious matter to our attention, and I want to say a few words on it. The Secretary of State has said in the press and on television and radio that at present no talks are taking place between the... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Speers: Various topics have been touched on in this debate. The one that I choose to raise has been mentioned in the past in other places — the need for a proper road between Armagh and Portadown. I can travel from this building — I will not say at... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mrs Steele: Following the remarks of Mr McCarthy and Mr Junkin, I wish to raise another aspect of transport services. I refer to the two main roads in east Antrim — the Larne-Belfast road (the A8) and the Larne-Carrickfergus-Belfast road (the A2).... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mrs Beattie: I take this opportunity to speak on behalf of the staff and the families of patients at Belvoir Park Hospital. It is my opinion that there is a need to maintain and, indeed, upgrade the hospital and to ensure its existence as the... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Peter Robinson: I regret that the subject with which I have to deal relates to the Northern Ireland Tourist Board. It is regrettable because over recent months I have been working very closely with representatives of the board, and, contrary to the... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Davis: May I draw to the attention of the Forum what I would describe as the Millennium Commission's unfair treatment of Northern Ireland. The figures that I have show that Northern Ireland received £7.4 million. Compare that to the following... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
3.15 pm Rev William McCrea: I have listened to the many concerns that Members have expressed, including those about roads. Taking the Larne line for example, I totally agree that the situation is urgent. I should like to talk about the area from which... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: Anyway, we still have five minutes. Mr Gibson: Mr McCrea has already made my speech, so I can save the Forum a minute or two. I was alarmed to hear that there are very hard shoulders on the roads in County Antrim and County Armagh. I am... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Donaldson: I welcome this opportunity for Members to address important issues. The one about which I want to speak is the Fair Employment Tribunal. In fact, there are several issues relating to how the "Fair Unemployment Tribunal" works. The... Friday November 1996Committee: Business Committee
Letter From Baroness Denton in Response to the Forum's Resolution on the Economy Thursday November 1996Committee: Standing Committee E
Letter From Baroness Denton in Response to the Forum's Resolution on the Economy Thursday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mrs Parkes: I would like to speak about the current crisis in the health service. I addressed the Forum some time ago about this vital issue and warned the Government that unless they took immediate action to tackle the crisis by providing additional... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Letter From Baroness Denton in Response to the Forum's Resolution on the Economy Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Carrick: I would like to take this opportunity to highlight the under-performance of sewage-treatment works and the resultant pollution of waterways. The decline in the quality of the water in our rivers and in Lough Neagh and its catchment area is... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Ms Sagar: The Women's Coalition acknowledges the deep concern that has been expressed by Unionists about the Anglo-Irish framework and recognizes that it was imposed without discussion. But we do not oppose the Anglo-Irish process, because we believe... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Brewster: Again no press. No coverage — or very little. I suspect that they are all off to the SDLP Conference in Cookstown to sit at the feet of "St John the Divine". Why are they bothering? A large part of the conference will be held in secret... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Point of Order: Right of Reply when a Member's Integrity is Attacked Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Rev Trevor Kirkland: Mr Tom Robinson was correct when he reminded us that it is important to go over the historical facts. Neil Kinnock said in November 1985 "It is a step on the long road to ending violence." But that has not happened. We are no... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Calvert: My topic is war memorials, and I would appreciate it if I could be heard this week. The Chairman: You have two minutes. Mr Calvert: Discussion of this subject is very timely. In February, my council received a letter from Down District... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Carrick: Today marks the eleventh anniversary of the signing of the infamous betrayal Agreement. It was signed by the treacherous hand of Thatcher and the cunning hand of FitzGerald, and the poison pen is as vivid today in the memory of Unionists as... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Weir: I support the motion. As other Members have stated, it ought to be supported by all in the Forum, because the Anglo-Irish Agreement has been disastrous for all the people of Northern Ireland, be they Protestant or Catholic. I vividly remember... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Shannon: I support the motion. It is very difficult to comment when so many of the issues have been covered already. Many of us can never forget the fateful day of 15 November 1985, when the Anglo-Irish Agreement was signed by Margaret Thatcher and... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr McAlister: Thank you, Mr Chairman. In future I will heckle as well as be heckled. Mr Hugh Smyth this morning castigated Mr McCartney for not being positive and for not pointing the way forward. That is not the case. He did, and his Colleague... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Brewster: I repeat that for several years Mr McCartney was not involved in active politics. Those of us who were — and still are — may not have had great success, but we are doing our best. That will be undisputed by all here today. We are all... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
2.30 pm Mr Morrow: I welcome the statement by Mr Rodgers that his party is not prepared to negotiate the constitutional position of Northern Ireland. I welcome it because I am not sure that in the past the position has been as unequivocal as he has... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Rev William McCrea: I rise to support the motion. This is a serious day. What we are witnessing is continuation of the betrayal of the people of Northern Ireland, who have endured a spiral of terrorism and violence for nearly 30 years. The people of... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Donaldson: Like my Colleagues, I support the motion. As others, including Mr Sammy Wilson, have done, I will try to reflect on the lessons that we can learn from what happened 11 years ago. It is important that, as well renewing our opposition to... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
Mr Calvert: I rise to support the motion. I welcome the opportunity to debate what I can only describe as a fundamental blunder by a blinded British Prime Minister. I remember well 15 November 1985. I remember it because as a British citizen I felt... Friday November 1996Committee: The Forum
The Chairman: Mr Poots and Mr Campbell, do you feel that you can add anything to that, or would you like to give this thinking young man a chance? Mr Poots: I am glad that His Lordship has graced us with his presence today. Earlier we had Mr Close... Friday November 1996