Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputies for all of their questions.

I thank Deputy Crowe for sharing the text with me. On the paragraph to which the Deputy refers in regard to the language about "new guidelines", support of emphasis, etc., I agree with the substantive point he makes. The language we use to talk about what is going on in the European Union, and sometimes about politics in general, could be a lot more clear and unambiguous. That is why, for example, I welcome initiatives that we have seen happen this week in practical and tangible matters that will make a difference to consumers within the European Union and in a way that they can readily appreciate.

On Deputy Crowe's direct point here about what that language means, it is used in the context of a paragraph about justice and home affairs on how our police and laws will co-operate with each other to deal with matters of joint concern. The paragraph is trying to say that it is important, before we look at new measures and look at how we might develop that in the future, to reflect on what we have at present and to ensure it is working as well as possible. That is the intent of this.

On Deputy Crowe's question about the role of the European Union in the Middle East, Ireland has continually stressed at the Foreign Affairs Council the need for more prioritisation and continued focus from the EU on what is happening in the Middle East and all that can be done to ensure that the peace negotiations recommence. I am aware of what is happening at present with the initiative by the US Secretary of State, Mr. Kerry. The US has said it is paused and it will look to recommence it in the future. We welcome the fact that in Palestine a government has been formed that seeks to represent all of the different groups and factions in that area because we believe, based on our own experience, that an inclusive administrative will find a way of conducting negotiations with everybody in the region to lead to peace.

On the discussion on Ukraine, while I ended on a point of disagreement with Deputy Martin earlier, I agree with much of what he stated on the analysis and discussion on Ukraine. I genuinely disagree with Deputy Boyd Barrett when he asks what is the difference between the actions of the European Union and Russia in this situation. Deputy Boyd Barrett asked what is the key point of difference on the discussions and activities that have taken place. For me, it goes back to the point of consent.

We have never forced anybody to join the EU and have never used any policy tools or instruments that might be in any way coercive. It is all about other countries either wanting to join the EU or associate themselves with it. It is an entirely peaceful and voluntary process. That is the core point of difference between what we see in the EU-----

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