Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. Vurm for his comprehensive opening statement. Obviously, in a presentation, you cannot touch on everything. There are two overarching issues that concern most European citizens right now. One is the changed security situation in Europe, with the unlawful and horrific invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation. The second issue is, in part a consequence of that, the cost-of-living crisis faced by European citizens. In terms of the Czechian stewardship of the European Council for the next six months, what specific measures does Mr. Vurm see can be promoted or developed to address a common approach to reducing the cost of living for citizens? Are there any measures that would strengthen people's confidence in the European Union acting in consort, as it did so effectively on vaccines, for example? Are there any common measures that can be taken to reduce the cost of living in terms of energy, food security, or any other matter like that?

A further question is in relation to the security situation in Europe. Obviously, Ireland is a neutral country. There is a council meeting of NATO today and I understand all European Heads of State and Heads of State will be attending the fringes of that meeting, if not the formal part of it. How does Mr. Vurm see the security architecture of the European Union being impacted by the developments and will there be any particular initiatives in that regard during the Czech Presidency?