Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)

Will the Minister confirm that now is a good time for leadership to be shown by major players on the European scene, such as our UK neighbours, as referred to by Deputies Quinn and Naughten? Would it not be welcome that those countries which hold significant responsibilities and play major roles in the European social, political and economic arena should bring forward proposals that demonstrate leadership? By this means, they might dissuade others of the temptation to break with the European tradition and ideal and the vision that led us this far along the European trail. It must be recognised that the European Union has had hiccoughs before, such as that in France prior the Maastricht treaty, but they ultimately resolved themselves.

Will the Minister use his influence to address the negativity and glee that recently emerged from certain quarters at the possible demise of the European concept? Will he reiterate to all and sundry that this country, with a number of other European countries, including the main ones, has benefited tremendously from membership of the European Union and that the original ideals and goals set by the founding fathers have stood us well and have stood the test of time? The Minister and the Taoiseach have had a positive influence in this area, and the main parties on this side of the House support that. Will the Minister use this influence to pursue those ideals with the objective of achieving similar results to those achieved over the past 50 years?

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