Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

I am on record already as supporting the establishment of a European affairs office in the House. I understand it was recommended by the Joint Committee on European Scrutiny chaired by Deputy Perry, if my recollection is correct. It is a matter, therefore, for the parliamentary commission to prioritise and implement that, but I am supportive of it.

At Government level we are responding to the Lisbon treaty by enhancing the level of engagement with the European Union institutions at all levels, including Cabinet and interdepartmental level, to ensure the structures we have are robust and effective in terms of dealing with increasing volumes of directives and legislation.

I agree there should be more plenary sessions here on European Union issues. I would support that enthusiastically.

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