Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

——as it helps the Croatian economy. Greater numbers of Irish people are returning not only to areas they visited before the wars and the break-up of Yugoslavia, such as Dubrovnik, but to many other regions. All this is appreciated. It is hoped that there will soon be a direct flight from Dublin to Zagreb, which the Croatians and I believe will be beneficial.

As I told Deputy Kenny, discussions on the constitution are ongoing. The Austrians will dutifully report on work in progress. Most countries, including some by democratic mandate, have voted for the constitution. What will happen with the French and the Dutch remains a dilemma. It is generally believed that there will be no policy change in that area until after the French general election in summer 2007. Many candidates for that election are setting down what they believe should be the conclusions and solutions, but that is an ongoing political debate in France. Given the size of Europe, the decision-making process and the institutional issues, they will have to return to the issues in the constitution. They may not accept the issues as they are but may try to remove parts. Europe will not be able to function without returning to these issues.

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