Brian Hayes (Fine Gael)

I am sure the Leader is aware that on 20 June the Convention on the Future of Europe will make its final report under the chairmanship of the former French President, Valery Giscard d'Estaing. I ask that on the following Tuesday we spend the entire day debating the outcome of the convention, given the fact that the House led the way through the initiative of the Leader in inviting members of the convention to contribute during the course of the debate. The Leader will doubtless agree that there is a great deal of concern within Europe, among all the political families, and among the governments of Europe concerning the outcome that seems to be coming from the discussions. I understand that in excess of 1,000 amendments were tabled by convention members and not even considered by the Praesidium in its latest two draft reports.

There is great concern among convention members that their voices are not being heard, particularly in regard to the rights and responsibilities of small countries when compared to those awarded to larger countries. There is a sense that the report was written even before the convention met. When it makes its report, given the role we have played in regard to it, the House should debate it in the fullest possible way.