Bernard Allen (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)

The Taoiseach stated: "The new system of double majority voting in co-decision matters, where 55% of the countries representing 65% of the citizens must approve a measure, will not now come into force until 2014 and if any member state so wishes, it can be further deferred until 2017." What is the Government's attitude regarding this decision? How will the system operate in practice and if any country in the Union decides to oppose the proposal, will it be delayed until 2017?

On energy policy, demand outstripping supply and the consequent impact on prices, supply and competitiveness, was there any discussion at last week's EU Council meeting on the need for a coherent policy?

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