Dara Murphy (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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Such defiance by the Deputy. I hope he does not lose the Whip as a result.

I hope the predictions of humanitarian and weather-related crises in Ethiopia and Eritrea do not come to pass. Unfortunately, there will always be crises, whether climate or conflict related, on the borders of the European Union. We must work much harder to mitigate and, where possible, prevent such crises, as well as building states.

Deputy Halligan made a similar point and noted the many reasons for, and causes of, the migration crisis. We are working actively in this area. While the issue tends to be discussed more at the Foreign Affairs Council, there is no question that the consequences of developments in many Middle East countries are a significant contributory factor.

We are closely monitoring developments in Moldova. These relationships are monitored through the eastern partnership configuration. We will continue to work with Moldova and other eastern partnership countries with a view to encouraging political and economic development. This highlights again the issue of the rule of law.

Deputy Eric Byrne correctly stated that asylum seekers are coming from a broad range of countries. Each application for refugee status is assessed on its merits. The principal reason for the so-called "hotspot" solution is to expedite the application process. It may be in order for me to circulate to the joint committee the report of the Valletta talks, which are discussing, as we speak, the specific issues the Deputy raised. I am sure we will have a report in the next day or two and we will forward it when it is received. Deputy Halligan noted correctly that we must address both the sources and consequences of conflict.

On the issue of political developments in Portugal and Spain, as members will be aware, a general election will be held in Spain on 20 December and Portugal held a general election in the past month. We will respect the democratic decisions taken in both countries, first as Portugal deals with the effects of its election and, second, as Spain prepares for its election. We may find ourselves preparing for a general election in early 2016.