Noel Treacy (Galway East, Fianna Fail)

We value the work of the sub-committee. It is a new process that is evolving. The Government takes the committee's submissions and comments very seriously. We take account of them when formulating our position. It is important the Government maintains flexibility to negotiate independently particular issues on behalf of Ireland. However, it is not just committees and Ministers who carry out this work. Our ambassadors at EU level are currently involved in these negotiations. I have no problem with changes in the structure of EU scrutiny. If the members of the sub-committee feel more attention and resources should be given, we will support that.

I listened to Deputy Harkin today and she pointed out that membership of the sub-committee may not re-elect a Deputy to Parliament and wondered how much time Deputies could, therefore, give to the committee. These are all questions we must ask ourselves as individual politicians. We always take on board the advice we are given, taking into account the legal parameters and the responsibility of the Government to get the best decision possible for the people of Ireland.

See this speech in context