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Writing Peace: The National Archives of the UK (TNA)

Memo from Christopher Prentice to Stephen Wall Regarding a Draft Congratulatory Message to Albert Reynolds

Thursday, 06 February 1992

i24038

Provides details about Albert Reynolds' election as leader of Fianna Fáil and his probable election as Taoiseach by the Dáil. Encloses a draft message of congratulation addressed to Albert Reynolds on behalf of John Major. Highlighted and annotated.

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6 February 1992

Dear Stephen,

New Leader of Fianna Fail: Message of Congratulations

This afternoon Fianna Fail TDs overwhelmingly elected Albert Reynolds as party leader, succeeding Charles Haughey. Mr Reynolds can now be confident that he will be elected as Taoiseach by the Dail on 11 February, the day after Mr Haughey's resignation.

The Prime Minister may wish to send a message to Mr Reynolds now rather than waiting until next week. I enclose a draft in a telegram to Dublin, for the Prime Minister's approval.

Mr Reynolds obtained 61 out of 77 votes. The other two candidates, Agriculture and Food Minister Michael Woods and Health Minister Mary O'Rourke received 10 and 6 votes respectively. The size of Mr Reynolds' victory is surprising. His supporters' most optimistic prediction was for only 55 votes.

Mr Reynolds has condemned the recent sectarian murders in Northern Ireland. He has also spoken of the need for urgent solutions.

I am copying this letter to William Fittall (Northern Ireland Office) and Sonia Phippard (Cabinet Office).

Yours ever,
(C N R Prentice)
Private Secretary

J S Wall Esq
10 Downing Street