Martin Mansergh (Fianna Fail)

I join with other Members in congratulating the ongoing Government on its success in getting agreement on the EU constitutional treaty. It is a credit not alone to the Taoiseach, his Ministers and civil servants, but also to the pro-European policy of this country over the past 40 years under successive Governments.

While it is hard to read the runes on this matter, I would like to see a well qualified Irish person occupying the position of President of the EU Commission, if that is possible.

I congratulate the Government on opening another chapter in the agreements with the social partners. I see that Senator Ross is looking gravely at me but these national agreements are an important element of confidence in the country. All sides agree that one will not get very far in business without confidence. It is a great achievement not alone for the Government but also for all the social partners.

I wish to make two other brief points.