Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I outlined the agenda for the European Council meeting in my primary reply. There have been occasions when issues that have arisen between the setting of the agenda and holding of the meeting have been discussed. It is a matter for the President of the Council, Mr. Von Rompuy, to assess the position. Also, the General Affairs Council of Foreign Ministers will be meeting on these matters on an ongoing basis and will reflect the views of their Governments. EU Common Foreign and Security Policy requires the agreement of all for statements to appear. There are unfortunately different nuances which appear from time to time among members states when this issue arises generally.

In regard to what has happened in this case, I find it hard to understand the reason any member state of the European Union would be in any way reticent about the type of motion passed here yesterday evening. If we set international law as being that which should be respected - I believe that is a good basis on which to proceed in this case - then there are certain actions that need to be taken and be seen to be taken.

See this speech in context