James Bannon (Fine Gael)

They are a welcoming and very well-educated people. They are very interested in events in the European Union. Their politicians are young, enthusiastic and well-educated. The country has a very rich heritage and culture and they have a great deal in common with us. I welcome them and other applicant states into the European Union because their entry will be mutually beneficial. They regard Ireland as one of the most pro-EU countries in Europe.