Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for his response. I have listened to his contributions. My view is that Spanish citizens should be allowed to determine for themselves, using their own democratic institutions and legal safeguards, what their preferred arrangements within their own country will be. The range of options or opinions on the issue of Catalonia is to be expected. I am grateful to have the opportunity to discuss this in the House but, again, the interest reflects the respect and affection we hold for Spain. The Government believes that it is for all Spanish citizens to determine their own constitutional arrangements using their own institutions. As I said earlier, I do not think it would be right or proper for me to comment further on it. We did not interfere in the Scottish referendum when it took place and in the same way, we should not do so here.

See this speech in context