Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

That is what longevity gives one. I say this just for the information of the House.

Has the Taoiseach informed the Parliament of the Czech Republic that Ireland has approved the Lisbon treaty in a referendum? The intention is not to put pressure on the Czech Republic but to remind it that the Lisbon treaty cannot be fully signed off until it and Poland have finalised the issue.

I also ask the Taoiseach for further clarification of his remarks to Deputy Gilmore this morning. If other parties or Members of the House consider certain persons to be suitable for nomination by the Government to the post of European Commissioner, what is the process for bringing this to the Taoiseach's attention? Is this done verbally or by written affirmation? There are a number of people I could recommend who would guarantee this country a senior portfolio. As the Taoiseach knows, there are 27 commissionerships to give out and they cannot all be responsible for finance or other important areas. While they act in the European interest, it is important for Irish people to know there is someone out there who understands the nature of the work to be done.

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