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

I thank Mr. Jacobs, who is a frequent and prominent visitor to the Oireachtas, for his presentation. We have been present during his many presentations on this issue. I have three specific questions. First, how likely is a treaty change in the short term? If such a change is likely, in which area is it likely to be? Second, is he aware of a change in the public perception in the context of the additional powers the European Parliament has recently gained? My sense is that there has been a shift in public understanding of the role of the European Parliament and the power it has. I do not overstate how much the needle has shifted but I think there has been a change. I am interested in hearing his perception of that issue.

Finally, in regard to further economic integration, which he referenced briefly, how does he envisage the shape of further economic integration? If I look at budgetary policy, with the two-pack, the six-pack, the fiscal treaty, it is quite difficult to see how that could move further without the role of national parliaments being radically diminished. If I look at the role of tax competency within the European Union, I find it difficult to see how that will radically shift without parliaments all over the European Union becoming very upset. I see potential for further integration in the area of a banking union, euro bonds and euro bills but beyond that, I always struggle to see to what areas people are referring, when speaking in terms of greater integration.