During a meeting with the Turkish Foreign Minister at the Joint Oireachtas Committee on European Affairs, I said: The Foreign Minister and the ambassador are very welcome. As others have stated, we are impressed with the manner in which the delegation has presented its views to us. Turkey will be very welcome into the European Union because it has a young population and we are in need of a youthful population..

However, I am unsure whether the people of Turkey wish for it anymore. I saw figures indicating that in 2004, some 70% of the population were in favour of joining the European Union, but last year the figure was only 40%. The delegation should correct me if I am inaccurate in this respect. I refer to another viewpoint expressed, that of the President of the European Council Mr. Van Rompuy. Apparently, he is very strongly opposed to Turkey joining the European Union.

What is the position in respect of the Kurdish situation and the relationship between Turkey and Iraq? Clearly, there has been a difference of opinion rather similar to the situation in Ireland and Northern Ireland in respect of the Kurdish population. A suggestion has been made that because good relations have been established with Iraq, there is some danger there might be a break up of Turkey at some point in the future. I understand the Opposition in parliament is rather concerned about this possibility and that of a separate State for the Kurdish people. Is this unlikely to happen or is it possible?

Speakers referred to democracy, freedom and security. There is a danger from a very strong army which has been involved in politics over the years. Is the delegation satisfied now that this is behind Turkey?

I refer to the involvement of Turkey in Afghanistan. Is there opposition or full support for the 1,700 troops in Afghanistan on the NATO side? Is this accepted by the population or is it a matter of contention? I was very impressed with what the delegation told us about the relationship in the past and I look forward to hearing others in future.

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