Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Polish Government has taken an aggressive attitude towards the reappointment of Donald Tusk as President of the European Council. He has been a very good President so far. He has shown important moral leadership, helped smaller and medium-sized countries to have a reasonable voice and ensured they are heard. Did the Taoiseach discuss that matter in Warsaw when he was there? Will he confirm that Ireland is supporting the reappointment of Donald Tusk in this critical position?

Reports from the meeting suggest that Poland was not particularly supportive of the Irish position on the common travel area which was outlined to the Polish Prime Minister. They are concerned about the implications of restricted movement on Polish citizens. Will the Taoiseach confirm that he stated Ireland's absolute commitment to maintaining freedom of movement post Brexit and that we would not allow the common travel area to cause new restrictions on travel between here and other EU member states? We could become trapped between the UK and others in terms of this issue which both might try to exploit to maintain pressure. Has the Taoiseach discussed that issue with the negotiating team?

See this speech in context