Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

I have dealt with some of these questions already. On the fundamental question of whether the onus is on Ireland primarily, it is on both Ireland and the European Union. We shall have to consult domestically and in the House. That is why I welcome this debate. I shall also be consulting the committees of the Oireachtas. In our examination of the issues involved, to be frank, the primacy of the Oireachtas has to be asserted. We have to be creative in finding solutions, but even if we come up with ideas, we will have to engage with our colleagues elsewhere in Europe, the incoming Presidency, the Commission and other member states. The exercise has to be undertaken on a collective basis. Obviously, we are conscious of the timeframe. However, it is important to get it right and to try to arrive at a sustainable solution, rather than being overly focused on the timeframe at this stage. The Taoiseach will discuss these issues with the Heads of State tomorrow.

See this speech in context