Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In anticipation of the committee's message, and not wishing in any way to pre-empt matters, I acknowledge the contributions of Deputies Durkan, Eric Byrne, Mitchell and Smith. I acknowledge the contribution of Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan and the comments of Deputy Quinn. I very much welcome the contributions. These agreements are important for the European Union and for Ireland. It is in the best interest of European Union, our neighbours and the Irish people that we continue to foster closer links with people in the region. We need to encourage economic development and a greater level of social integration. It is very much in the best interests of the countries on the basis of their own application that we proceed to ratify at the earliest opportunity.