Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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233. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which issues likely to require attention within the European Union, such as emerging nationalism, are a focus for member states with particular reference to the need to rediscover the vision of Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18645/17]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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One factor behind the rise of extreme right wing movements in Europe in recent times is disillusionment among Europe’s citizens that their everyday concerns are not being addressed by their political leaders. In response, they have been listening more closely to those offering easy answers and all too often, simplistic solution.

The Rome Declaration agreed by EU leaders last month rightly highlights the EU's achievements, which leaders see as being increasingly overshadowed by emerging populist movements. The Rome Declaration is just one manifestation of the ongoing debate on the Future of Europe. Member States generally accept that now is not the time for grand gestures or bold new institutional or Treaty initiatives. That makes strong and continued delivery on current priorities all the more important. While there are differing views about the order and emphasis on different policy priorities – jobs and growth, Single Market and Digital Single Market, migration, internal and external security and defence – there is convergence on the need to communicate that the EU will prioritise delivery for its citizens, re-dedicate itself to its core values, and reaffirm its raison d'êtreas the embodiment of peace, stability, democracy and the Rule of Law in these uncertain times.

Delivery on these important issues should serve to rekindle citizens’ trust in - and support for - the EU and the values it espouses.

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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234. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which the western Balkans receives constructive support and attention from the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18646/17]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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The Western Balkans continues to be a priority for the European Union. At the most recent European Council on 9 March, the Heads of State and Government, including the Taoiseach, reaffirmed their unequivocal support for the European perspective of the Western Balkans. The region was also discussed at the most recent Foreign Affairs Council (6 March) which I attended, and the most recent General Affairs Council (7 March), at which Ireland was represented by Minister Dara Murphy, T.D.

These high-level discussions both reflect the commitment of the EU to the Western Balkans, particularly in a context where internal political difficulties are compounded by the impact of external influences on the stability of the region, and complement the on-going work of the European Commission and the Member States, including Ireland, in respect of progress on the enlargement and integration processes in individual candidate and potential candidate countries.

Ireland is a strong supporter of the enlargement process, regarding it as a transformative driver for stability and progress, and we work actively with our European partners to assist candidates on their reform path, and to encourage good neighbourly relations and inclusive regional cooperation initiatives.