Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)

I will try to group the questions together and if I get an opportunity, I will return to them towards the end of the debate. I concur with the views expressed by my party leader, as well as by Deputies Rabbitte and Quinn of the Labour Party in respect of some of the developments that have taken place. As for the EU sugar regime, it has been suggested in certain quarters that, contrary to popular opinion, the beneficiaries of the new regime will not necessarily be the poorest producers in Africa and other places. Can the Minister comment? Moreover, if this information is correct, can he give some indication as to what the likely response could or should be?

Previous speakers referred to the European response to the illegal drugs trade, the illegality of drugs importation, the enormous profits that emanate from it and the degree to which such profits can be and are laundered in international locations, as well as everything else that goes with it. Hence, in this respect, the European Union must be clearer in its mission as to how the problem should be dealt with.

A number of other speakers made references to energy. Energy supplies, like those of food, are something on which one cannot depend indefinitely, especially if it is in short supply. On the energy regime that needs to be developed for the future, could the Minister indicate, for instance, to what extent the European Union will be able to develop a policy that will at least create a certain amount of independence in so far as energy supplies and requirements, particularly of alternative energy, are concerned?

I wish to raise two final questions. At what stage will it be possible for the European Union to indicate its proposals on the ratification of the EU constitution? Will there be changes or discussions on changes, or how is it intended to achieve the support necessary for ratification of the constitution, given the results of two electoral tests that have taken place already?

My final question relates to the reference made in the Taoiseach's speech to rural development. As a person who was born in rural Ireland, I have a certain suspicion about that particular phrase because it is a nicely rounded one. It sounds grand and gives the impression of greatness and goodness emanating from a magic pot that will produce funding. What does rural development mean and what will it mean in future? What does the European Union now mean by rural development? Does it mean investment in rural infrastructure or in infrastructure of some nature that will be of benefit to rural economies? One must remember that as our towns and villages get more densely populated there is an area where rural Ireland can make a contribution, and I want to know whether that is likely to be the case.

See this speech in context