Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I refer to the other 26 countries and a scenario in which the Minister tells them that Ireland has decided the sovereign decision has been made by the people who wish to operate under the existing rules and institutions as laid down in the second Nice treaty. Can the Minister indicate how other countries might react or respond to this? While I have heard much talk of renegotiation, the Minister may be able to confirm or refute my belief that the other countries are not in a mood to renegotiate the details of the treaty. He should indicate what he sees ahead and the timeframe. Is one talking about the summer or autumn or must we come to a conclusion by the end of the year? He should outline a timetable.

The Minister should deal with one specific issue. My understanding is that on foot of the Nice treaty, the size of the Commission must be reduced by November 2009. This is definite and no one can veto it, as it already has been decided, although there must be unanimity on what the reduction will be. How are we going to break this impasse? If the Lisbon treaty is not ratified and the issue of the Commission arises, can the Minister indicate what the Irish position might be? Will the Government adopt the position as outlined in Lisbon with the rotation of Commissioners or what will we do? The Minister should provide an indication in this regard because this must happen. If no agreement is reached, what will happen to the Commission in November 2009? Will it be disbanded or will it have any legal status?

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