Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

Any change in that area would be more than welcome.

In response to the Deputy's supplementary question, one of the benefits of the Lisbon treaty is the proposal for a more permanent representation at the highest levels of the Union for a longer time. The Union very quickly had people from countries which have influence in that region in situ. These include the French President's initiative with President Mubarak. Several Prime Ministers, including Ms Merkel, Gordon Brown and the Italian Prime Minister, were in attendance at the announcement of the ceasefire arrangements, which indicated that there was significant European interaction with the Palestinians, the Egyptians, the Israelis and others to bring the situation, which has had tragic consequences, quickly to a halt. This highlights the benefit of a more consistent approach. A permanent president of the European Council, for which the Lisbon treaty provides, would give us the coherence and continuity that we expect, and which is needed, when life and limb are at risk and the EU's influence can be of great benefit.

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