Ireland has always supported the extension of qualified majority voting to areas where it can help increase the effectiveness of decision-making. We should continue to support this method. Clearly, there are also a limited number of red line areas where unanimity must continue to apply if the discussion of the Union are to have legitimacy with its citizens. Amendments to the treaties, taxation and of course decisions on defence are examples of areas where unanimity must be categorically maintained. Ireland has been particularly vocal on this area at the Convention and the hard work has paid off. Although defence remains a sensitive issue, there has been an obvious roll-back in the draft constitution on taxation. This is to be greatly welcomed and a testament to the wonderful efforts of the Minister of State and his team.