Kathryn Reilly (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the panel here today. Mr. Connolly mentioned neutrality. The Minister for Defence told the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, NATO, review publication last year that neutrality is an outdated concept. Is that idea floating around Europe? Mr. Connolly spoke about the blend of force, development aid and diplomacy. The plans discussed at the last European Council meeting could see increased spending on weapons and arms by EU member states including this State. Will that float in this State, given our neutrality? Is there sense in such a policy?

The European Parliament recently voted on a report that noted with regret that the EU does not possess a permanent military planning and conduct capability. Our MEPs supported that view. The document defends excessive military spending. This committee talks about promoting Ireland’s interests in the EU and its relationship with the Commission and the Parliament. Dr. Brennan spoke about the scrutiny of legislation. Does he think we should consider some of the reports that go through the European Parliament too, such as the one I mentioned?

Moving on from the role of MEPs, what is the current state of play with regard to engagement between Departments, permanent representations and MEPs? We cannot force the hands of MEPs as they are members of particular political parties and groupings within the Parliament but is there co-ordination?

The civic education of young people was mentioned. Last week the Minister for Education and Skills, Deputy Ruairí Quinn, announced that politics and society will be an examinable subject for the leaving certificate examinations. I am aware that he believes what is in place up to junior certificate level is not adequate. It is his view that a good part of that needs to focus on European integration, European politics and making sure there is more of an understanding of European institutions and how they work.

Senator Catherine Noone mentioned the Constitutional Conventional. A previous convention considered reducing the voting age. We talk about referenda turnouts and lack of understanding. Does Dr. O'Brennan think that this European aspect in the politics and society module, which will be coming on stream, would help? When I did my master's in 2008-09, I did my thesis on the Eurobarometer survey and how many people consider themselves European. The number was low then but it is much lower now.