Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

An important point, which has been mentioned, is that despite what occurred, which was a major mistake, the European Union and member states have shown extraordinary solidarity with Ireland over recent years. While there was a spectacular mistake two weeks ago, it is important to remember that there has been solidarity. Owing to the engagements we all have with our European colleagues, they are listening to what we are saying now. They are probably listening to the proceedings of this committee also. Anything we say by way of criticism is welcome but it is part of normal accountability in what is a democracy and considering what the EU is. It is our European Union; it is not some administrative structure's European Union. It is the Union of the citizens. I did not want to let the meeting go without acknowledging the solidarity we have all noted over recent years, but that does not in any way take from the requirement of accountability of political leaders.