Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the ambassador and thank him for his presentation. We appreciate his attendance before the committee for such a discussion. At times it is difficult for any democracy to face up to external criticism. Any comments I make should not be seen as criticism by the ambassador. We wish to bring about a situation where we are all playing on a level pitch. Any reports or concerns that get raised about the rule of law are rightly of concern for all friendly nations. We can work collectively to try to address any issues that arise. One of the areas on which I wish to focus is the policy that is in place to assist in the protection of vulnerable minorities. The issue arises in terms of the Roma community.

I am also aware that the European Parliament's culture and education committee has rejected endorsement of Hungary's Commissioner designate as the future education, culture and youth citizenship Commissioner. Will the ambassador comment on that, or is there anything he can tell us that would give us some comfort in that regard?