Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I welcome the Minister's remarks with respect to external relations issues. I concur with him on his analysis of the guarantees that have been given as it is important to put these issues to bed. In many respects, what Deputy Ó Snodaigh said about the treaty not changing is true. However, surely after these guarantees have been given and the commitment to the protocols made, while the treaty has not changed per se, Deputy Ó Snodaigh's understanding of it, and that of many of the "No" campaigners, should have changed because what is and is not in the treaty is now clearly outlined.

There is also the issue of the political commitment to retain our Commissioner. Will the Minister outline what the future holds for the current Commission? Do we know when it will end and when might the Government appoint a replacement Commissioner?

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