Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

Concerning the members of Government who were in favour of the last referendum, there are internal party rules that must be adhered to for a party's position to be established. That is a matter that must be respected and understood. I appreciate the support of the Green Party's Government colleagues in our efforts on a range of European issues, including this particular matter.

The issue of the European Defence Agency was raised, and misinterpreted and misrepresented, in the debate during the last referendum. As part of the process of giving reassurance to those who voted "No" to Lisbon because of concerns relating to the maintenance of our neutrality and fears of European militarisation, the Government has decided to set out the parameters of our membership of the agency in legislation. To date, we have participated in an agency research programme, following Cabinet approval.

The proposed legislation will have the requirement of both Cabinet and Dáil approval along the lines of other aspects of our foreign policy engagements. Ireland will only participate in those projects that benefit and support our ability to provide peace support under the UN mandate, which is the current position of the Army. Ireland participated in one agency project on the improved protection of personnel and force protection. That has been the limit of participation so far. The Government wants to give reassurance in legislative form to the public and confirm our involvement in this aspect of common foreign and security policy is in line with our own traditions as outlined in the treaty texts.

One hopes it can de demonstrated clearly that the recent Iranian elections were fair and transparent and the result reflects the will of the Iranian people. The Iranian authorities have given a commitment to have at least a partial recount. One must wait to see how extensive and adequate this will be. There is a concern within Iranian public opinion about the accuracy of the election result. That is a matter that needs to be resolved by the Iranians themselves to their satisfaction. I noted the US President's concerns over the violence that has erupted in parts of Iran over the elections results and the need to ensure human rights and freedom of expression, which he regards as universal values - a view to which I subscribe, are respected in the working out of the democratic will of the Iranian people.

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