Bernard Allen (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)

In respect of the conclusions of the meeting, I noticed an omission under international affairs. It referred to the Palestine-Israel issue, but there appeared to be a serious omission in respect of the ongoing problem with Iran. Did any discussion take place about the ongoing nuclear issue in respect of Iran?

What is the Taoiseach's opinion on the role played by Germany, France and the UK, who are acting as our agents in discussions with Iran? How appropriate is it for these countries, two of which are nuclear nations, to be part of these discussions? Does the Taoiseach see any role for Ireland, which was one of the architects of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, NPT, in those discussions? Does he agree that it is time that the impasse relating to the review of the NPT is dealt with once and for all in view of a recent report which stated that ongoing proliferation will spiral out of control unless a major reform of the NPT takes place? One can see what happened with the proposed agreement between the US and India. What are the Taoiseach's views on this front?

In respect of the conclusion under the heading of external affairs relating to energy supplies, it states that a joint or co-ordinated approach should be taken by EU countries in respect of external countries. How does this square with the bilateral deal concluded by Germany with Russia? How is that hindering a joint approach by the European Union on energy supplies?

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