Lucinda Creighton (Dublin South East, Fine Gael)

The Lisbon Agenda is important. Obviously, the European Union has not gone far enough, predominantly because it has not been allowed to by member states. We must consider this matter in the context of our position on the future of Europe. Does the Minister agree that, were we not in the Union and the euro zone, the economy could have gone the way of Iceland's in recent days? The safety net we have, by virtue of our membership, is absolutely crucial. In bilateral discussions with the Presidency, has there been concentration on the future response? There is a Council meeting next week but the EU cannot operate on the basis of a Council meeting every two months. I assume there is more constant and regular communication.

Regarding the fallout from Lisbon, in the Minister's discussions with the French President, is there frank discussion of the consequences of Ireland's "No" vote to Europe? The Taoiseach, the Minister and the Minister of State have stated that everything is rosy in the garden and that they were welcomed with open arms at Council meetings. I do not believe this and we know that there are consequences. I ask the Minister to outline these to the House.

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