David Norris (Independent)

We have heard a good deal about fairly local aspects of the financial situation but I contend there is a more serious situation, that is, the general one. So far, it appears no one has mentioned the fact that Italian bonds are at more than 7% and we face the prospect of a total meltdown in Europe. There is complete confusion and a total lack of leadership. Frau Merkel and Mr. Sarkozy appear to project a two-speed Europe as part of which, after all our pain and suffering, we might be cast out into a second class position.

Let us consider the historical parallels with the way in which Germany was formed out of small principalities. There is an inexorable centrifugal force pushing Europe towards either much greater fiscal and political union on the one hand or disintegration on the other. These are the two stark prospects. I believe it is inevitable that we will go in the direction of greater fiscal and political union but for this to take place there must be proper discussion beforehand, involving parliaments, to ensure real, democratic principles are enshrined in this new Europe and that the major parties do not take control over all the levers of power. The real problem is that leaders all over Europe, including in this country, have traditionally put the interests of the establishment and the preservation of the system above the welfare of the people. In the new Europe we must have the welfare of the people put as the primary concern of good government.

I support the remarks of Senator Bacik and Senator Cullinane about the situation in Israel. It is extraordinary and Kafkaesque. People on an errand of mercy on the high seas are hijacked, brought forcibly to a country whose regime is hostile to their intent and then an attempt is made to get them to sign papers saying that they illegally entered. The illegality is on the part of those who forced them into the country in the first place. I am glad that strong diplomatic representations are being made and I am glad that our embassy staff are at Ben Gurion International Airport. I hope this matter will be resolved speedily.