The left in Ireland and in other European countries has traditionally failed to recognise that European security and defence policy will not be driven ultimately by US and British concerns. While that axis must be recognised, this policy must be driven by EU member states that have a different perspective on the world. The left in Ireland needs to grow up on this issue, as it has flouted reasoned argument for too long. Members of the social democratic party in Europe cannot understand the position taken by the left in Ireland on this matter. I refer, in particular, to the small parties such as the Green Party, the Socialist Party, Sinn Féin and others. They must confront this issue.