John Bruton (Meath, Fine Gael)

In my work in the Presidium, I represent the national parliamentarians of Europe who elected me to the position. I do not represent the Government or an Irish position. In chairing the group, I have to seek compromises, some of which Deputy Pat Carey, on behalf of the Government, did not agree with. I have a job to do and I try to reconcile different imperatives. I have imperatives from my party at national and European level, my country and my views on Europe. One is always trying to reconcile these and does the best one can.

Senator Ormonde asked how much support there is for my proposal for the direct election of the President of the European Commission. While most people agree with it, they do not want to see it done now.