Rónán Mullen (Independent)

I want to share the concern that was already expressed that, for the second time, a committee of a foreign Parliament is considering information that emanated from an institution of the European Union that deals with matters that relate to the economy and finances of this State, yet the information has not been presented to the legitimate Parliament of this State. This shows there is an appalling attitude somewhere within the European Union and other member states.

The Leader was correct to say the other day that we should not direct our ire at the people of another member state. It is also true that small countries in the European Union, and especially at a time of crisis like this, need to be treated with a measure of respect. Treating a small country like Ireland as though it were little better, with due respect to local authorities, than a county council in the European Union is an appalling message to be sending, particularly at a time when our people must make a sensitive decision on the fiscal compact.