Eileen Lynch (Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister of State for being here and for his comprehensive report. I wish him the best of luck for the term ahead, in what I am sure will be an interesting and challenging Ministry. He spoke briefly about the multi-annual financial framework and the commitment to CAP.

I am looking for further detail on that because there is a proposal that environmental and climate funding would take a portion of CAP funding. I know the Minister, Deputy Heydon, has been quite vocal against this and that this is the same position held by Commissioner Hansen. This is an incredibly important CAP budget for us, not just right now but in terms of regeneration and renewal when it comes to farming. We are in a situation whereby food productivity, food efficiency and food production are becoming increasingly important. When looking at a real-life situation whereby 6% of European farmers are under 35, this CAP budget is particularly vital. It is not only important that the current budget is maintained and ring-fenced but that the budget would be expanded and extended.

The Minister of State discussed the priorities of the Single Market and the EU-wide energy grid infrastructure investment. This is incredibly important and is not being discussed enough. Starting at home, I am a firm believer in the need for the expansion of the grid. Energy security is a big problem going forward. It is already a problem given the energy shortages throughout Spain, Portugal and France in April. Will the Minister of State provide further clarification or information on that in terms of what the plan is and how it is planned to progress?

I raise the European Presidencies and the upcoming Danish Presidency in July. Was this discussed in detail regarding the priorities of the Danish Presidency?

In the context of international conflict, Ukraine seems to have gone somewhat down the line. The Minister of State referred to it in his report. Was there a feeling at this meeting that progress is being made? I found it very disappointing-----