John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

I join Senator Brian Hayes in paying tribute to Archbishop Eames and wish him well in his retirement and, in doing so, acknowledge the contribution he has made not just to his church but to national society and the peace process on this island. He was a voice of reason and Christian charity and tolerance at a time when that was difficult, something we must acknowledge. Perhaps a voice like his can penetrate those minds in Ballymena and elsewhere that are impervious to any reason. I congratulate the Police Service of Northern Ireland which has apprehended people in connection with the terrible crime of the killing of the young boy. One of those accused appears to be a minor, which is something on which we should reflect.

Today is Europe Day and it is being marked by functions and ceremonies around the country. We must also welcome the fact that tomorrow the Dáil will devote a day to European matters. I acknowledge the work done by the Ceann Comhairle on the matter. He has been an advocate of Europe Day throughout Europe and has encouraged national parliaments to devote a day to European matters. One of the reasons is that in the ordinary nature of affairs, high visibility matters. Issues such as health, criminal justice, education, etc., dominate the media while important matters of a European nature get little prominence. One way to accord them prominence is to have a day specifically devoted to them. Hopefully, Seanad Members will be able to contribute.

Next Thursday, this House will debate the report of the Joint Committee on European Affairs on migration. It would be appropriate to discuss some of the issues raised by Senator Tuffy in that debate, such as the trafficking of people.

There is a European White Paper on EU communication policy. The lack of communication seems to be at the heart of some of the difficulties with having the EU constitution adopted. This is an important issue and I suggest the Leader consider a debate on the issue when the report is available. Perhaps we should have a Commissioner here and open the floor to MEPs to participate in a debate.