Seán Haughey (Dublin Bay North, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State is down to her final member. The 3.30 p.m. start probably did not suit us on this occasion, as there is much happening in the Houses today.

I thank the Minister of State for her comprehensive briefing on the issues of the day in regard to the European Union and note her comments on Brexit and the backstop. I agree that if the Taoiseach could improve his relationship with the British Prime Minister, Mrs. Theresa May, it would be helpful. That said, we are all singing from the same hymn sheet on Brexit and wish the Minister of State, Deputy Helen McEntee, the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste success in the coming weeks as it is in all of our interests. I also note the Minister of State's remarks on the multi-financial framework and the emphasis the Government is placing on the Common Agricultural Policy.

I raise the issue of migration which seems to be one of the biggest challenges facing the European Union. I note Mr. Donald Tusk's remarks at the informal meeting of the European Council and call for a constructive approach to resolving the migration crisis and a broader vision of partnership. Migration is the crucial issue, from which the Republic of Ireland is a little removed because of its geographical location. Across the European Union there has been an increase in the number of populous parties, nationalist right-wing parties and neo-fascist far right parties, which is a concern as these parties are challenging the values of the European Union. I note the Minister of State's remarks on the Irish approach in that regard. It is welcome that we are playing a constructive role because we are all Europeans. Ireland and all other EU member states need to manage diversity and implement successful integration policies. We can learn from the mistakes made by other EU member states. Integration is key. We need to play our role in the overall context. In that context, I refer to the need for "burden sharing", as referenced. Ireland is ready and willing to play its role in facing up to this crucial challenge facing Europe as a whole. We have managed the situation fairly well thus far, but we need to have a further conversation on it. When on an Emirates flight recently, I watched a documentary about the refugees who were arriving in Ballaghaderreen. While there was a lot of fear initially about the refugees being settled there, after several weeks those who had reservations had come round to the idea. The issue of migration is one on which we need further debate in this committee. We also need to have a debate at State and EU level on how we manage the migration issue which poses a big challenge.

The elections to the European Parliament will take place next year. I do not think Irish people give serious consideration to whom they elect to the European Parliament. Often candidates are elected on the basis of local or national issues. We all need to give serious consideration to whom we elect to the European Parliament in the light of the challenges facing the European Union. Ireland needs to pay particular attention to the issue of migration and learn from the mistakes made by other EU member states. Migration is an issue that is not going to go away.