Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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264. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which particular emphasis is placed on efforts within the European Union to address the issue of euroscepticism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23074/16]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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The issue of euroscepticism is complex and multifaceted. Obviously it arises particularly in the wake of the outcome of the UK referendum in June. Of course, I am well aware that, in individual Member States, there are those who would wish to leave the Union. However, this is not the position of any other Government or Parliament.

The European Union engages with the big issues of the day, whether they relate to stability, jobs and growth, or to challenges external and internal, such as migration and international terrorism. It is important to continue to engage with these issues at the EU level if we are serious about addressing them. They cannot be addressed at national level.

As the leaders of twenty-seven Member States agreed on 29 June, “The EU is a historic achievement of peace, prosperity and security on the European continent and remains our common framework. At the same time many people express dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs, be it at the European or national level. Europeans expect us to do better when it comes to providing security, jobs and growth, as well as hope for a better future. We need to deliver on this, in a way that unites us, not least in the interest of the young.

“That is why are starting today a political reflection to give and impulse to further reforms...”

An informal meeting of the 27 Heads of State or Government will take place in Bratislava on 16 September, with a view to a first collective discussion on the renewal of the EU.

The Government will participate actively in this process, aiming to put the citizen at the heart of the EU agenda for sustainable investment, competitiveness, growth and jobs.