SINN FEIN’S DEMAND.

Taranaki Daily News, 21 July 1921, Page 5

SINN FEIN’S DEMAND.

THE ISSUE DEFINED, INDEPENDENCE SOUGHT. ULSTER’S FIRM STAND, Bj Telegraph.—--Press Assn.-—Copyright. London, July 19, De Valera informed the Daily Herald that Ireland’s one demand is the unqualified right to choose freely how she will be governed, in other words independence. Iler only request is to be left free from British aggression and interference. The paper adds that De Valera is at present in this country conversing with the British Premier as President of the Irish Republic. Sir James Craig’s statement caused surprise in the lobby, but is regarded as beneficial by bringing reality to the situation and checking the easy optimism. The mbby is confident that Ulster’s step will not harm the peace effort; merely meaning tha,t Ulster is determined to decide her own status for herself. Desmond Fitzgerald, in an interview, said it is not u question Of Belfast being subservient to Dublin, as Sir James Craig suggests, or of Dublin being subservient to Belfast, but that both must be subservient to the Irish nation as a •whole. The basis of the nation’s claim is Mr. Wilson’s 14 points. If the Irish conference is to take place it must be on the basis of an independent nation. SINN FEIN AND ULSTER. DEALING ONLY WITH PREMIER. P.eceived July 20, 9.30 p.m. London, July 19. Fitzgerald, mouthpiece of the Irish delegation, was recently released from prison. He declares there is no reason why De Valera should meet the Ulsterites at the present, stage. “Our negotiations are with Mt. Lloyd George,” he says. “If he thinks it, desirable to consult Ulster that is a matter for Mmself. De Valera will not refuse or accept any definite suggestions for a settlement which may be the outcome of the Downing Street talks without first, submitting them to the Dail Eireanii.” —United Service.