Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

I was surprised at the Taoiseach's touchy response to my simple request to publish the text of the van Rompuy compromise text from the 11 March meeting. Publishing it would allow people make up their minds objectively as to whether the Taoiseach skilfully handled the meeting or bungled it. He has decided not to publish it, however.

Yesterday, I asked about his recent meeting with the French President, Mr. Sarkozy but, again, I got no reply. Was it a substantive or cursory meeting? Where did it take place and for how long did it last? Was anything specific agreed, other than to keep doing what has been done since March?

What did the Taoiseach say to the Council about Mr. Draghi's appointment as president of the European Central Bank? Did he agree to the Italian and French exchange of membership of the executive committee? Did he disagree with the ECB's position on bank debt and decision to increase interest rates which will have a devastating impact on many in this country? Why did the Taoiseach agree to the text for the conclusions of the Council meeting which states Ireland's debts will be sustainable without an interest rate cut, a direct reversal from the position adopted by the previous Government and this Government in March?

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