Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

We have not yet received replies from the MEPs because the letters have just been sent. I have mentioned to the Cathaoirleach that we have invited all the Irish MEPs to come to the House to talk about the EU constitution. I will report the progress that we make in that respect to the House at it happens.

Senator Brian Hayes's proposal was an excellent idea, which was followed up as soon as details of the MEPs' home week were received. We showed a good level of innovation in recent years when we invited MEPs to address the House individually. Some of them were good and the meetings went well, but that was not the case in other instances. We should have a good debate on the EU constitution when all the Irish MEPs are present in the House. We are looking forward to our European day, which should take place in the week beginning 16 May next, depending on the day that best suits all the MEPs. It will be difficult to get their preferred dates to coincide, but we hope it will be possible. The matter was followed up reasonably satisfactorily after it was raised by many Senators some time ago. I hope it will have a good conclusion and a good audience.