Fianna Fáil, Northern Ireland and the Limits on Conciliation, 1969–1973

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This article examines the focus of Fianna Fáil policy initiatives relating to the Northern Ireland issue in the period 1969–1973 within the context of their interpretation of Irish republicanism and beliefs as to where Irish interests lay. Managing the consequences of the emerging conflict within the southern jurisdiction is explored through the lens of national sovereignty, political and institutional authority and the defence of the rights of Irish citizens. Critiques that hold that a fresh politics had emerged in the Republic of Ireland during the 1960s are challenged as the limitations on new thinking on the national question are assessed. The Fianna Fáil administration under Jack Lynch pursued a cautious approach, designed to reaffirm Irish sovereignty to both national and international audiences, uphold political authority and the rule of law within the state and restate the case for Irish reunification at every available opportunity. Confrontations between the British political, security and legal apparatus and their Irish equivalents reflected a resolute Irish government exercising political autonomy in pursuit of its objectives in a manner consistent with the norms of the time. Only slowly did Fianna Fáil reappraise, in a limited manner, its approach when progress at an intergovernmental level seemed possible.