Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

There is some positivity in the Minister of State's reply. From what he said, it sounds like some countries were testing the water to see whether the proposal would be supported. Those who have criticisms and reservations about it must raise them strongly. I hope that Ireland takes the lead in that regard, given the significance of the questions raised. There is no guarantee that the EPF will contribute to conflict prevention or peace building, which is what the EU, UN and so on are about.

In the context of the multi-annual financial framework, MFF, questions arise around the EPF's financing. That same applies in respect of decision making. From the little I have read, the decisions would be made by certain member states and not the European Parliament. Many questions arise.

I hope that those who are strongly against it will be very vocal in their opposition, particularly if the European Parliament will not be involved.

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