Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

It has been agreed that Thursday's European summit is likely to be crucial for the country, for Europe and for the economy as a whole. I understand the summit is due to last three hours, including lunch. There is a need for clear and comprehensive action from the summit. Given the importance of the summit for Ireland time should be made available in the House, as has been the practice, for statements on the matter tomorrow. Let us consider the legislative schedule. I suggest tomorrow's legislation is nowhere near as important as the issues on the summit agenda. I call on the Taoiseach to agree to make time available tomorrow for statements on the European summit.

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