Proposals for setting up a Forum on Europe, cleared yesterday by the Cabinet, are to be discussed with the Opposition leaders.
The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern said he took into account the views expressed in the Dail and outside by Opposition leaders. When the Fine Gael leader, Mr Michael Noonan, asked if the Taoiseach would "give a free rein to his dissenting Ministers to express their own opinions", Mr Ahern said his proposals represented the Government's decision.