Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On the policy background, it would probably be unfair to say this is a consequence of economic federalism. First, President Macron wants a stronger and more integrated Europe but he is as aware as many former French Presidents of the importance of national sovereignty. Second, with regard to the scale of the funding instrument, it is difficult to put a figure on it because there are very contrasting views around the table on how big it should be. Third, this is why I am putting forward the case that it needs to be inside our overall European budget. I am eager to avoid being in circumstances in which there is a need both to fund an increased European budget, which will be the case and in which Ireland will play a role, and meet another demand, the exact magnitude of which is difficult to quantify. That is why I hold the view, along with some member state colleagues, that it is better to deal with the funding in the context of our discussions on the MFF, which allows us to put a figure on what is required. I am always available to answer questions on this, particularly at meetings of the Joint Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform, and Taoiseach and the Committee on Budgetary Oversight.

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