The Tánaiste, Ms Harney, said in the Dáil yesterday morning it would be wrong to assume that photographic verification of decommissioning was the only outstanding issue in the Northern talks.
Ms Harney added it was also important to acknowledge that the Government supported others in their quest to have photographs published.
"We have seen many photographs published of dreadful atrocities, and many videos used for propaganda purposes. Humiliation works both ways."
Ms Harney was taking Leaders' Questions in the absence of the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, who had left for Belfast.
The Labour leader, Mr Pat Rabbitte, who joined with other party leaders in wishing the talks well, said he was a little taken aback by the Tánaiste's remark that it should not be assumed that all that remained at issue was the question of photographic verification of decommissioning.
"I was under the impression, given what the Taoiseach said at Question Time yesterday, that there was one outstanding issue, and all the media reports are to the same effect.
"I am not quite sure that I understand the Tánaiste's remark."
Later, on the Order of Business, Ms Harney agreed to a request from Mr Rabbitte for a Dáil debate on the North next week.
"The Irish people are being given the impression that a mere photograph is standing between them and a comprehensive settlement," he added.
"If some parties are not minded to reach a comprehensive settlement for other reasons, it is important that Irish citizens should be aware of that."
Ms Harney agreed it would be a good idea to have a discussion in the House after the Belfast talks. "I agree with the deputy that the reasons we might be unsuccessful should be placed in the public domain. As I said, it is not simply about a photograph."
The Green Party leader, Mr Trevor Sargent, said he supported the request for a debate.
"It is appropriate that we should have an inclusive debate of the type that is all too infrequent in this House, unfortunately.
"It would be useful to hear certain views if we are to make progress in implementing the Good Friday agreement."
