Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

For the information of the House and as the Deputy is probably aware, the Government initiated and concluded a significant report on the strategic relationship between Ireland and the US. The Taoiseach launched it during St. Patrick's week, thereby highlighting the strategic relationship between Ireland and the US while setting it in an EU context.

We have been clear in our strong support for a progressive and warm relationship with the US, not only in terms of economics, but also regarding the Middle East peace process, for example. We welcome the prioritisation of that issue by President Obama and the appointment of Senator George Mitchell and stand ready to provide our support. The strong, strategic partnership between the US and the EU in terms of the suppression of piracy can be effective. The EU-US axis is pivotal to the peaceful resolution of a number of international disputes. There is no disagreement in terms of the importance of the-----

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