Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Tánaiste for appearing before the committee and giving a comprehensive review of activities. As the Chairman will be aware I attended, on the Chairman's behalf, the December meeting in Vilnius of chairmen which was taking place last week. Considerable concern was expressed at the unsatisfactory conclusion of the Eastern Partnership so far as the Ukraine was concerned. A long and animated discussion took place on the treatment meted out to Ms Yulia Tymoshenko in particular. It was also pointed out that those on the east of the Ukraine appear to come under greater influence of Russia while those to the west are more oriented towards the European Union, which I suppose is natural. To what extent can the European Union continue to engage with the Ukraine and, perhaps, the Russian authorities with a view to ensuring that the obvious will of a majority of the Ukrainian people in terms of orientation towards the European Union is acknowledged, provided and catered for?

That would be important, considering Georgia and Moldova have accepted and concluded their association agreements. Had the Ukraine completed its requirements in regard to the partnership and the acquis and to what extent is it influenced by the Russian authorities in this regard?

I wish to make two or three other points. The humanitarian issue has been covered, but there is a danger that areas like the Philippines could be ignored because of a series of competing crises all over the globe at the same time. In such situations, can we be assured an adequate international focus will continue to apply to countries in positions such as that of the Phillipines?

I want to congratulate all involved in the progress that has been made in regard to Iran. This is of huge benefit to global peace. While there is still a long way to go, the discussions were critical and will be reviewed over the trial period. It is incumbent on all concerned to maintain the focus. I compliment Catherine Nash on what has been achieved.

What is taking place in regard to the Middle East peace process may not be all that spectacular, but it is taking place. I urge that everything possible be done to ensure the focus remains on the process, flimsy as it may be, so that it continues, strengthens and is successful.

Members have covered the other issues. I believe the review of the European external action service is useful. It is critical that process is adequately geared up to quickly address issues as they arise. There is a grave danger that because of the multiplicity of issues confronting the European Union and the international community at any given time, it could be overwhelmed. I hope the external action process will be able to make provisions to deal with that.