Brian Ó Domhnaill (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wish to be associated with the remarks, made by the vast majority of Members, congratulating the Irish soccer teams. In particular, I congratulate the Republic of Ireland or FAI team and wish them well on Sunday. Last night's result was magnificent. The players showed real determination and heart. The management got their tactics right and deserve credit, as do the fans. I agree with all of the complimentary remarks made about the fans. I heard the interview given by the French ambassador this morning. He outlined that all of the French media paid high tributes to the Irish fans above all other fans. We should all recognise that the Irish fans are acting as ambassadors during the Euro 2016 games.

I wish to touch on another issue. Today, the Brexit vote will take place in the North and across the water. The result will have huge political and economical consequences for the Republic of Ireland and for the rest of the European Union. Unfortunately, other threats have emerged in the European Union. For example, there is a high dependence on the German economy and Nordic countries. Also, the less well-off countries such as Spain, Greece, Portugal and Italy are in a state of negative equity with a negative balance sheet of almost €1.5 trillion. I call for a two-fold debate on the European project. We should have one debate on the euro and eurozone and another debate on the European Union.

The European Union is comprised of more than just eurozone countries. There are question marks about solidarity and the EU meeting the principles that led to its establishment back in the 1950s under the Treaty of Rome. We must question whether the EU currently meets its founding principles in terms of solidarity and humanitarian aid being provided to Syrian refugees and others.

I suggest we hold a two-fold debate. There is an economic argument and a humanitarian-solidarity side. It may not be possible to have the debate before the recess. I ask the Leader to arrange for it to take place as quickly as possible because the economic stability of the EU will be a major issue over the next six to 12 months.