In general terms, however, substantial progress has been made on these issues which were of concern to this Parliament. We should welcome what has been done to date. The Convention has not sought to alter the basic mix of policies which have served Ireland and the European Union well such as the Common Agricultural Policy and the Internal Market. As Members will be aware, proposals have been brought forward in the areas of justice and home affairs, foreign policy and defence. While we have made some progress in these areas, discussions are continuing and some of the issues are likely to be revisited in the Intergovernmental Conference where it has been suggested that no changes should be made. Unless there is absolute agreement in the Convention, it is not possible to suggest that no amendments will be made at the Intergovernmental Conference. We will undoubtedly see changes in the areas of justice and home affairs, foreign policy and defence. Taxation is an area in which we will continue to oppose moves towards harmonisation and qualified majority voting. We have worked closely with a number of partners, both current and future, in this area to ensure it is clear that this is an issue of paramount importance to us.