Mr. Crowley, MEP:

It is always a useful sine qua non to have. I thank the Leader of the House, the House and the Cathaoirleach for inviting us here today. It is a reflection of this House's initiative that it has been the first such institution to give MEPs the opportunity to attend and discuss ongoing work in the EU because of its direct impact in Ireland. It is always difficult to know what area to cover when one is discussing a constitution because they have all been touched on or dealt with.

Mr. Crowley, MEP:

I would like to begin in reverse order. I did not plan on mentioning it but in light of the fact that my esteemed colleague, Gay Mitchell, MEP, raised the issue with regard to defence and the changes that should made, I will address it. Whatever the rights and wrongs of being part of a common defence policy, alliance or union, that decision is the sole preserve of the Irish people.