Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I say good luck to everybody in the new year and wish everybody success. I warmly welcome the ambassador and his colleague today. They have given a very comprehensive outline of proposals for the Presidency, on which I congratulate them. Bulgaria is a recent member of the European Union and it is a great honour for the country to assume that Presidency for six months. The slogan, "united we stand strong", is very appropriate in the current climate as we see developments from Brexit etc.

I have the honour of representing our Chairman, Deputy Healy-Rae, and the committee in Sofia at the COSAC meeting. I look forward to meeting the ambassador's colleagues and colleagues from throughout the European Union to discuss objectives and plans, which we will do in detail. The witnesses have set out their position comprehensively. I have no doubt, having heard reports from the Taoiseach's visit on 5 January, that he had a very successful visit. He outlined the policy of the State to fully support the objectives of the Presidency of Bulgaria. I can say without any fear of contradiction that it would be the united approach of this joint committee. We are with Bulgaria in its Presidency and we look forward to meeting colleagues. I hope Bulgarian colleagues will visit us during the next six months.

This is an enormous opportunity for Bulgaria. I know they are taking this very seriously and giving it 100% attention. Connectivity is very important and I am delighted Ryanair flies to Sofia three times per week. It is a big step forward and I again recognise the work of Mr. Michael O'Leary and Ryanair. Ryanair has done much for Ireland and Europe by creating connectivity throughout the European Union. I can say it has done more than any other airline in this respect, as it travels to every part of the European Union and beyond. I recognise that work and commitment and, as Irish people, we are very proud to have an airline like Ryanair servicing Bulgaria. When I meet the ambassador's colleagues and learn more about the Presidency, I will be in a better position to contribute to later discussions.