Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is noteworthy that other EU member states have not yet made that decision. Sometimes the most effective way to move something forward is to act together. We are talking to other member states about the issue. I acknowledge that some countries have moved, but there is sense in EU countries talking to each other and potentially seeking to act together, as well as communicating with China on a bilateral basis about our concerns. We have a very good diplomatic relationship with China. We speak frankly about issues when China has a concern about a position we might be taking or when we have a concern about a policy it might have. I have had a very frank discussion with the Chinese ambassador on this issue. That directness is important when we have a genuine concern.

I will not make a decision here today. We have a process in train. We are talking to other EU countries which have similar concerns to Ireland's about this issue. However, we have not made a decision on that extradition arrangement yet.

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