The Dáil may debate events in the North today, the Tánaiste said yesterday.Ms Harney was speaking in Leinster House in the afternoon, before it became known that difficulties had arisen.
The Fine Gael leader, Mr Enda Kenny, expressed "a warm welcome for the unfolding events on this historic day for the people of Northern Ireland".
He was sure, he said, that everyone in the House would join with him in expressing the hope that they had finally reached a point where the full implementation of the Belfast Agreement would take place.
"I repeat again my support, on behalf of the Fine Gael party, for the efforts of the Government in attempting to see this achieved. I commend the Taoiseach and his colleagues for their continuous efforts in bringing about the unfolding events of the day. I hope they will be real and fruitful."
Expressing her appreciation of Mr Kenny's comments, the Tánaiste said she hoped it would set the scene for the full implementation of the Belfast Agreement and for only normal electoral politics to operate in Ireland.
"The events of today are a staging post along this route. Subject to the agreement of the whips, it is the intention of the Government to have a debate on the unfolding events, perhaps tomorrow."
Later, the Labour leader, Mr Pat Rabbitte, also wished the Government well on the North. "We look forward to having the opportunity at the earliest possible time to debate what has transpired when there is more clarity."
