Ruairi Ó Murchú (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

When I attended the Conference on the Future of Europe there was a considerable discussion of unanimity versus QMV. In fairness, much of it seemed to arise from a simplistic view in that we have specific rule of law issues, specifically with Hungary and Poland. It stemmed sometimes from citizens' ideas but governments sometimes also think like that. While it is simplistic, obviously if someone is constantly disagreeing on subjects that the other countries all agree on, then it is fine to move on. That approach is grand until it concerns an issue that would impact greatly on countries like Ireland, where we will always believe we are on the right side of the argument. I am, therefore, very worried about that conversation. I agree with all that has been said regarding it not being workable to have a two- or three-speed European Union. I do not think I have seen anyone who would strongly disagree with this view.

On the migration and asylum pact, it is very difficult to see how we are going to get agreement across the board. My other fear is whether this proposal gets to the heart of the issues that must be dealt with. Migration includes emergency and crisis scenarios, such as the emergency in Lampedusa and other areas, which seem to be increasing. We know the fears that exist, whether we are talking about conflict or climate change. There is also the necessity of migration, especially from the perspective of ensuring we have a workforce. The State and the European Union have not reached a proper scenario for dealing with a work permit system that works for us and the people who would seek employment. When are we going to get real about any of these issues?

On the subject of Nagorno-Karabakh and the European Union's relationship with Azerbaijan, we are all very worried about what is going to happen in Israel and Palestine. I an very worried about certain right-wing forces within Israel that never supported a two-state solution. I will use a terrible term here but what happened in Nagorno-Karabakh is almost perfect from the point of view of ethnic cleansing, although in the worst possible way. That cannot allowed to stand in any way, shape or form.

I was somewhat worried when I heard we did not necessarily support Spain's proposal on Catalan, Basque and Galician, but I welcome what the Minister of State has said. We all know how difficult it was to secure for Irish the status it deserved and all the advantages that come with that. I would like to think we will support the proposal for those other languages. It is a necessity, given that approximately 10.5 million people speak Catalan alone.

I think that is sufficient for now.