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

Deputy Eric Byrne said he was concerned that we had not given sufficient recognition to the language to be used in Ukraine. If he was referring to my contribution, I apologise if I made such an omission and he should allow me to rectify the matter now. I emphasise the Government's view that the upcoming referendum is illegal; that the actions we believe have been taken by Russia should not have happened; and that there is a strong need which has been articulated by the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste for a peaceful resolution of the difficulties. We have been very consistent of and strong on this point for many months and will continue to adopt this role at the Foreign Affairs Council on Monday and the European Council next week.

On Deputy Eric Bryne's specific point on the neighbourhood policy and the situation in Moldova and Albania, I assure him that Moldova will be the subject of discussion at the Foreign Affairs Council on Monday. The point he has made is correct, namely, that we also need to recognise the countries that signed the Stabilisation and Association Agreement - Moldova and Georgia. In the context of what is happening within their neighbourhood, we need to ensure they receive the support they need. This will be the subject of discussion at the meeting on Monday. I have met representatives of the Moldovan Government and I am very much aware of their concerns. A good articulation of our interest and support for Albania is that I understand the members of the committee will be travelling there. Am I correct?