Dáil debates

Wednesday, 7 December 2022

Pre-European Council Meeting: Statements

 

2:22 pm

Photo of Joe FlahertyJoe Flaherty (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

As we are here to make pre-European Council statements, I acknowledge the outstanding contribution from President Ursula von der Leyen in the House last week. She spoke about Ireland's pivotal role in Europe and how history has helped shape a nation of innovators and creators. It is a nation very much at the heart of the European experience and journey. As one of the most influential and motivational European leaders of our time, her comments resonated with the entire nation. They were timely and extremely well received. Our European experience has taught us the value of role models. An Taoiseach and the Minister of State have led us on our European adventure with courage and conviction since coming to office. At every opportunity, An Taoiseach and the Minister of State have rightly reinforced our commitment to the European Union throughout our time in government. This is to be commended. It is very much a benchmark and statement of intent for modern Ireland and a progressive Ireland that we are seen as modern Europeans.

As President von der Leyen rightly said last week, our European experience allows us to stand tall and proud and reflect on our achievements and pivotal role as true leaders in the most progressive and inclusive union the world has ever seen. The EU is a union of equals, one that affords opportunity for all. Crucially, it provides a shoulder of solidarity and support for those countries facing strife and persecution. In particular, I commend the Minister of State and An Taoiseach for forcibly articulating our support for the people of Ukraine throughout the ongoing struggle. I look forward to their continuing this staunch support in the coming months.

President von der Leyen spoke to the importance of leaders and role models in modern Europe. As we look to the end of the current Taoiseach's term, it is only right and proper that we acknowledge what have been his considerable efforts on our behalf at EU level. I commend him on this. There are many pressing engagements for us at the European Council and the Minister of State has heard many of the views articulated. When we go to the European Council we should not forget the words of President von der Leyen last week. She spoke of our emergence as a small nation but a mighty force on the European stage for good and for effecting change. As we reflect on her comments this week, which is the centenary of our emergence as a free nation, we will see it very much as a statement of progress for the country and how we have evolved. Not only have we emerged as a free nation but we have also emerged as a pivotal force for good in Europe. The Minister of State and many others who are driving our needs, wants and aspirations at EU level need to be commended.

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