Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

This is an informal Council which will follow the normal procedures of an informal Council. There is no change in procedure. As we all know, we have a greater opportunity at informal Councils to have political conversations on issues. I assure Members that the normal format of an informal Council is proceeding. It would not be opportune today to discuss what is on the agenda of the informal Council. However, although it is not the norm after an informal Council to make statements to the House - that usually happens after spring Council - I will, in the context of the serious issues that will be raised, speak to the Taoiseach with regard to providing an opportunity next week to discuss the outcome of the deliberations. It is important to point out, as was stated by many Heads of State last night, that we will be very supportive of our partners within the European Union because it is only through solidarity that all members of the Union will be in a position to have economic stability, sustainability and economic growth.

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