Ciarán Cannon (Galway East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senators for their contributions. Ireland has always worked constructively with the Spanish Government to build bilateral and trade relations and to pursue our common goals at both EU and international levels. Of course, we are monitoring developments in Spain closely so we can better understand our EU partner. We are paying particular attention to any potential impact that events might have on Irish citizens. The Department is following developments closely and is responding to the concerns of Irish citizens both in the Houses and outside.

The Government continues to give this matter its full attention. My colleague, the Minister of State with responsibility for European affairs, Deputy Helen McEntee, spoke on the matter in the Topical Issue debate on 21 September. The Minister, Deputy Coveney, as well as the Minister of State, Deputy McEntee, have spoken with the Spanish ambassador on the issue. There were statements in the Dáil yesterday by the Minister, Deputy Coveney, and I am happy to have the opportunity to update the House this afternoon. The Taoiseach discussed Catalonia with Prime Minister Rajoy on the margins of the recent European Council. I and the Government condemn the violence that occurred on 1 October. The Government is very clear that there is no room for violence in politics and it is important that there should be no repeat of that violence. Such actions are counterproductive. Political progress must be pursued through dialogue.

The Government supports a resolution to the current situation that is based on democracy and the rule of law. I reiterate the Government's position that this must be determined by Spain and its people based on the rule of law and through their institutions. It is through such democratic processes that all voices can be heard and a way forward found. Of all nations in the EU, we should understand that. We are now entering a phase where there is potential for confrontation. None of us wishes to see further clashes or injuries such as those that occurred earlier this month. Dialogue is the way forward so there can be a peaceful outcome.