Seán Haughey (Dublin Bay North, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wonder if there was an acceptance of the special position of Ireland in all of this. Obviously, we have concerns about the future of the common travel areas, the possible erection of trade barriers, the possible introduction of cross-Border controls and the peace process. Did any bilateral meetings take place at the European Council meeting between the Taoiseach and other European leaders and did the Taoiseach manage to gain support for the Irish position and to convey the view that this is a particular item of concern to Ireland?

What was the prevailing view regarding the need to reform the EU institutions? Several speakers here this afternoon have spoken about the democratic deficit, the disconnect between the citizens of Europe and the European Union institutions, and the fact that the European Union procedures are bureaucratic. There is certainly a need for better delivery on key issues, particularly on youth employment, the refugee crisis and sluggish growth.

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