Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

As a House, we need to express our concerns about the worsening situation in Catalonia. I met the Spanish ambassador yesterday and, on behalf of my party, expressed concerns. While we respect the constitutional position of Spain, given that it is a matter for Spain to determine its own constitutional structure, as it would be for ourselves, the physical suppression of an act of democracy was unacceptable. It worsens a situation considerably when people are imprisoned or prosecuted for political reasons. The ambassador explained that the judiciary acts independently, but we should express a view on this matter.

My question directly relates to the Taoiseach's conversation with President Tusk and the leaders' agenda. The Taoiseach mentioned the permanent structured co-operation on defence, PESCO. According to the leaders' agenda, the Council will launch PESCO on 14 and 15 December, which is not far away. President Macron of France has proposed an EU army and a shared defence budget. The Taoiseach is reported to have said that, while Ireland would be keen to take part in PESCO, we had not yet made a formal expression of interest because we needed to wait until its full remit had been clarified.

We cannot drift into this. We need a clear expression from the Taoiseach about what he sees Ireland doing in terms of defence co-operation. What specific role would he be agreeable to and will the House have some opportunity to debate these matters before any formal position is tabled by the Government on our behalf?

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