Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent) | Oireachtas source

As I stated in my opening remarks, the question of Catalan independence remains a deeply divisive and contentious issue in Catalonia and in the rest of Spain. It is through democratic processes in full respect of the law that differences of opinions must be contested. Upholding the rule of law is the foundation that underpins and protects our democracies. The problem presented to the Spanish Supreme Court was a legal and constitutional issue. We should be wary of simplifying a complex issue. As we expect other countries to respect our legal system, we respect the independence and integrity of the Spanish courts. What happens in Catalonia matters to us here in Ireland, as evidenced from Oireachtas interest in developments there. The Government supports all efforts aimed at facilitating reconciliation. We remain of the view that it is for all Catalans and Spaniards to arrive at a shared view of what steps within their laws and domestic institutions best support a process of resolution of divisions.