Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

On the question of the Greek economy, the two major points emerging from the European Council, including ECOFIN, focus on showing solidarity and recognising that every member state in the eurozone has responsibilities to discharge under the Stability and Growth Pact. The monitoring and work that will take place on the part of the Greek authorities, European Commission, European Central Bank and IMF need to be allowed take their course. There will be a progress report in March. A very significant commitment is being made by the Greek Government to reduce its deficit by 4% during the course of 2010. This will involve a very significant change in policy.

Prime Minister Papandreou, whom I know for many years since he was a Minister for Foreign Affairs in a former Greek Government, is seeking to ensure the intentions of the Greek Government are understood and accepted. He is working very hard internationally and domestically to achieve this. He, as a committed European, is determined to work with European colleagues to determine how he can discharge the responsibilities of his state in the present circumstances in a way that will allow for the provision of assistance, where possible, by fellow member states in the eurozone and European Union generally. There is an ongoing process of surveillance, monitoring and statistical evaluation and a report will be produced thereon in March. It is best to allow the process the time and space to develop.

I have addressed the issue of the passports referred to by Deputy Ó Caoláin. I am glad the Deputy supports my view that people should not be using false passports in these circumstances. It is very important that the integrity of our passport system be upheld by all at all times.

Government policy on the Middle East, including, Israel, the West Bank and Gaza Strip, has been consistent under all Irish Administrations. It is a question of the right to self-determination by the Palestinian people in a viable Palestinian state and of recognising the similar right of Israel to live in peace and security. We should continue with this policy, which is balanced and seeks to protect the rights of everyone where there have been abuses of rights or where disproportionate counter-measures have been taken to deal with threats of terrorist attack. While recognising the difficulties involved, one must ensure international law is respected. Irish Governments of all persuasions have been very consistent in that regard and will continue to be so in all international fora.

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