Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

The Council agreed that a financial crisis cell would be established, which would provide an early warning and information exchange mechanism for EU member states to relay information to the President of the Commission, the European Central Bank and the euro group of countries. The details and procedures for the cell are to be finalised by ECOFIN. It is desired by all member states in order that there will be co-ordination, an early warning and a provision of information on any initiatives undertaken, either at member state or EU level.

The Deputy's points do not actually pertain to the document on our implementation of the Lisbon Agenda. One is free to take a subjective view of the material presented by the Government in its submission to the European Union on our adherence to the principles of the Lisbon Agenda. History shows that of all the member states, we have been the most energetic in pursuing the Lisbon Agenda, especially when it comes to economic development. In the last 12 months there has been a significant downturn in the economy, as well as a global financial crisis, all of which is impacting on economic performance this year and will do so next year and possibly the year after that, but that does not invalidate the fundamental tenets outlined in the document.

The migration pact is a political statement on the principles that should underpin the approach of EU member states to immigration and asylum measures. It does not have a direct legislative implication for Ireland or other member states, but it is a very useful statement of principle which will inform the approach of the European Union in dealing with migration and asylum issues. There are three elements to it, namely, the management of legal migration, the fight against irregular and illegal migration, and the recognition of the connection between migration and development, especially for non-EU countries that are countries of origin of migrants. The pact strikes a balance between the rights of migrants and asylum seekers and the need to strengthen policies to combat illegal migration. It was an initiative of the French Presidency which was determined to get it through. It is a welcome measure——

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