Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

What view has the Taoiseach articulated in respect of the increasing danger due to the attenuation of the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons treaty? The review of the treaty has been postponed until 2010, with serious consequences with regard to North Korea and Iran. Has the Taoiseach articulated the Irish view and what is the EU response to it?

The EU Vice President, Mr. Franco Frattini, stated that immigration and terrorism will be the two main issues on the European agenda for the foreseeable future. He stated it would be necessary to spend €272 million between now and 2013 to protect European borders. At the recent European People's Party, EPP, meeting it was made clear that this is a serious problem no European country can deal with alone. Last year the Dutch sent back 17,000 people and this year some 25,000 people were arrested attempting to enter Greece. A similar figure applies to Malta and the Spanish Government of Zapatero has legalised several hundred thousand people, principally from North Africa, since 2004. With the population of Africa doubling within the next 20 years, no European country could deal with even a small percentage of that population deciding to migrate. We welcome immigrants to our country and the role they play in the development of our economy and its services. What is the view of immigration? What progress has been made on a comprehensive, clear and practical EU policy on immigration?

The Copenhagen criteria were adopted by the EU regarding the entry of Turkey. At this stage entry cannot become an eventuality unless criteria are agreed and accepted on both sides. Are we putting off the decision day when Turkey, as a secular state, refuses to recognise Cyprus? This is a clear problem. A conclusion on Turkey's entry will not be reached until the problem is solved. This matter was discussed at the recent Heads of Government meeting. What was the outcome and what view did the Taoiseach articulate as the Irish Prime Minister? What is his view on whether this will become a reality?

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