Dara Murphy (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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Yes, and the Chairman conveyed his congratulations to me personally.

I covered the question of the clarity of our position in respect of the forthcoming UK referendum. It is important to remember that we have other good friends in Europe and we will work to ensure reasonable ambitions are maintained.

I agree with Deputy Durkan's observation that these are volatile times. I agree, too, that the position and role of Turkey is now extremely important. There is no doubt that in order for there to be any solution to this crisis, that country must have a role to play.

Deputy Durkan asked whether the European semester process is working. It is something of a subjective question but that said, we are seeing growth across the EU, which was not happening for a long time. Employment is growing in many member states but we still have significant issues in many cases in regard to youth unemployment, which will have to be addressed. Given that the European semester process is a relatively new format and the format itself has been amended to give more time for discussions between the various stages, it is very much a matter for us here in this committee to ensure we make the best use of the process.

Deputy Durkan made a point about different types of EU membership. Certainly, the Norwegian and Swiss cases are often referenced in the debate in the UK. While Norway contributes very significant moneys, it does not have the same powers as member states. It is a different type of membership.

The Deputy also asked what is being done to address the causes of migration. As I said, discussions are ongoing today in Malta. There is absolute acceptance by everybody that the effects and consequences for member states and the people in transit must be mirrored by attempts to ensure the causes of migration are addressed. UN Special Representative Bernardino León has presented a political agreement for a government of national accord in Libya, as referred to by the Deputy. Indications are that this is the final option for all parties. Unfortunately, the deadline passed without the two main factions agreeing but the discussions will continue. Ireland has strongly supported this being a UN-led process and we continue to urge all parties to seize the opportunity to endorse the peace agreements as soon as possible.

We will continue to play our part in contributing to state-building assistance measures and supporting people on the ground. Deputy Eric Byrne returned at an opportune moment.