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During a meeting of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on European Affairs, I said: I thank the Minister for a full description of what he sees are opportunities at the forthcoming Council meeting. I must also congratulate him on the success of the recent release of Mr. David Bloomer and the British yachtsmen...
There has been severe criticism of the appointment of Catherine Ashton as EU High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, as being a fudge because she does not have the experience required. Will the Minister give his views on that? There has also been criticism of the appointment of Herman Van Rompuy as President of the European Council, as someone who will not rock the boat. He has strong views on Turkey’s accession to the EU and is opposed to it. Does the Minister believe Mr. Van Rompuy will influence this? Last week when I was in Spain, I heard the EU trade Commissioner describe the forthcoming Spanish EU Presidency term and the financial and economic challenges facing Europe. When will the Presidency’s programme be published? Subsidiarity was one factor that convinced Ireland to join and become active in Europe. The principle of decisions being made closer to the citizens is very apt considering the threats to the financial well-being of many European countries. Today’s Financial Times had an interesting article about Greece and its failure to reach EU standards on debt and GDP compared with Ireland, for which it has far more hope. Does the big stick held by the European Central Bank to make sure we behave ourselves affect the principle of subsidiarity? It is about being able to run our own economy and reach the levels set by the EU. Greece’s future in the eurozone is threatened by its failure to reach the same targets. The steps it may have to take will be imposed on it. Quite rightly, that same thing will be imposed on us if we do not manage to reach our targets. What are the Minister’s views on that?There is much criticism of the Israeli settlements. I do not, however, find a balance when it comes to the Palestinian’s views on the right of Israel to exist. Until the two-state solution is accepted to a much higher degree, it is hard for us to criticise Israel. I am glad it is on the Council agenda but disappointed we are not getting anywhere on this. The US seems to have a far greater influence in this area. For the full record of the meeting, please click here. |
