Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

I welcome the Taoiseach to the House and thank him for coming so readily when we approached him and his office. He spoke about two themes. I appreciate that this debate is primarily about European matters, but the Taoiseach also referred to the challenges he faces in Northern Ireland, which have often been discussed in this House. We have asked the Taoiseach to come to the House to speak about such issues and are glad he is doing so today.

Before I deal with three specific aspects of the Taoiseach's statement, I would like to thank the Members of the Seanad who are members of the Joint Committee on European Affairs. Senators from all parties are doing very valiant work at that forum. The Taoiseach mentioned the importance of the committee's scrutiny of EU legislation. We will produce proposals in this regard when we bring forward the Seanad reform programme, to which the Taoiseach kindly alluded.

The accession of ten new member states is particularly uplifting and historic for Ireland, which is a very small country. With two exceptions, the accession states are as small, if not smaller than Ireland. It falls on our shoulders to bear the responsibility of welcoming and giving proper and due recognition to the new member states. Some of the countries in question have ancient civilisations and historic backgrounds and have contributed a great deal to Europe over the centuries. This is also true of Ireland, a small island on the periphery of Europe.

I ask the Taoiseach not to entertain the notion of a two-speed Europe. Such an idea is anathema to the people of Europe. The European Union was established in order to give a voice to all countries, regardless of whether they are large, small or in-between. I hope we can erase the words "two-speed Europe". If this means we have to quieten a particular gentleman, I am sure the Taoiseach will be well able to do so during his talks. We do not want to hear about this idea.

Many people have outlined their thoughts on the deliberations on the convention. It is better that the convention be properly constructed and regarded, rather than rushed. I know the Taoiseach's talents and mind will lend him to that point of view.

I thank the Taoiseach for coming to the House and wish him good luck in all his endeavours.