TITHE AN OIREACHTAIS
AN COMHCHOISTE UM GHNÓTHAÍ AN AONTAIS EORPAIGH
TUARASCÁIL BHLIANTÚIL 2017
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HOUSES OF THE OIREACHTAS
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
ANNUAL REPORT 2017
32ENUA0013
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
Table of Contents
Table of Contents ...... 1
Chairman’s Foreword ...... 2
1. Content and Format of Report ...... 3
2. Establishment and Functions ...... 3
3. Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Membership ...... 4
4. Meetings, Attendance and Recording ...... 4
5. Number and Duration of Meetings ...... 5
5.1 Joint Committee ...... 5 5.2 Select Committee ...... 15 5.3 Informal Meetings ...... 15 6. Witnesses attending before the Joint Committee ...... 22
7. Committee Reports Agreed ...... 22
8. Travel ...... 22
9. Report on Functions and Powers ...... 23
APPENDIX 1 Orders of Reference ...... 24
APPENDIX 2 Membership ...... 32
APPENDIX 3 Meetings of the Joint Committee ...... 33
APPENDIX 4 Minutes of Proceedings of the Joint Committee ...... 38
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Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
Chairman’s Foreword
On behalf of the Joint Committee on European Union Affairs, I am pleased to present the Joint Committee’s Annual Report for 2017.
This year saw the Joint Committee continue its work on preparations for the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union. The Joint Committee met with the British Ambassador, and at a special meeting of the other Joint Committees, European Parliament Brexit Coordinator Mr Guy Verhofstadt MEP. The Joint Committee also engaged with the Minister of State for European Affairs on key developments regarding the Brexit negotiations.
The Joint Committee took account of the priorities at the start of each of the Maltese and Estonian Presidencies of the Council of the European Union, as they shaped the agenda of the EU.
Following the publication of the European Commission’s White Paper on the Future of Europe in April 2017, the Joint Committee held a series of meetings with representative groups to discuss their views and perspectives.
The Joint Committee was pleased to meet with European Commission First Vice-President Mr Frans Timmermans and European Commissioner Mr Tibor Navracsics, and to hold strong engagements with Irish MEPs, as well as European Commission officials, Ambassadors and other stakeholders.
Finally, I would like to thank my colleagues on the Joint Committee and the staff of the secretariat for their continued hard work and dedication.
Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman
27 JULY 2018
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1. Content and Format of Report
This report has been prepared pursuant to Standing Order 89 (3), (4), (5) and (6) (Dáil Éireann) and Standing Order 76 (3), (4), (5) and (6) (Seanad Éireann) which provide for the Joint Committee to- undertake a review of its procedure and its role generally; prepare an annual work programme; lay minutes of its proceedings before both Houses; and make an annual report to both Houses.
At its meeting on the 9 May 2018 the Joint Committee agreed that these items should be included in this report covering the period from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2017.
2. Establishment and Functions
The Dáil Select Committee was established by Order of Dáil Éireann of 5 July 2016 to consider such matters arising from:
Ireland’s membership of the European Union; Ireland’s adherence to the Treaty on European Union and the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, as it may select and which are not referred to any other Committee; Bills the statute law in respect of which is dealt with by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade; proposals contained in any motion, including any motion within the meaning of Standing Order 187; and other matters referred to it by Dáil Éireann.
The Dáil Select Committee under the same Order was enjoined with a Select Committee of Seanad Éireann, established by Order of Seanad Éireann of 21 July 2016, to form the Joint Committee on European Union Affairs. Among the principal functions of the Joint Committee are to consider matters arising from; the European Commission’s strategic planning documents including the Commission Work Programme; 3
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cross-sectoral policy developments at European Union level; matters listed for consideration on the agenda for meetings of the General Affairs Council of Ministers and the outcome of such meetings; regulations under the European Communities Acts 1972 to 2009, other instruments made under statute and necessitated by the obligations of membership of the European Union as the Committee may select; notifications referred by the Dáil under Standing Order 115(1)(a), notifications of proposals for the amendment of the Treaties received from the European Council pursuant to Article 48.2 of the Treaty on European Union; notifications of applications for membership of the European Union received from the European Council pursuant to Article 49 of the Treaty on European Union; and other matters referred to it from time to time.
The Joint Committee represents both Houses of the Oireachtas at the Conference of European Affairs Committees (COSAC) and reports thereon to both Houses. The consolidated Orders of Reference of the Joint Committee on European Affairs are set out at Appendix 1.
3. Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Membership
Dáil SO 93(2) provides for a proportion of Chairs to be allocated to each group by means of the D’Hondt System. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae TD was appointed as Chairman of the Select Committee by Resolution of Dáil Éireann on 7 July 2016. The Chairman of the Select Committee of Dáil Éireann is also Chairman of the Joint Committee. Senator Terry Leyden was elected Vice- Chairman of the Joint Committee on 4 October 2016.
Membership of the Joint Committee is listed at Appendix 2.
4. Meetings, Attendance and Recording
Meetings of the Joint Committee took place in the Committee rooms in Leinster House 2000. Meetings were in public unless otherwise ordered by the 4
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Joint Committee.
Joint Committee proceedings were broadcast live within Leinster House and also made available to RTE, TV3 and TG4. Proceedings were also webcast making them available worldwide on the internet The proceedings of Committees in public session, typically recorded but occasionally live, and are broadcast on the dedicated parliamentary channel Oireachtas TV which is available on these channels:
Saorview 22, Sky 574, Virgin Media 207, eir Vision 504 Vodaphone Channels 201, 207 and 208
An Official Report (Parliamentary Debates) of the public meetings of the Joint Committee may be viewed on the Houses of the Oireachtas website at www.oireachtas.ie.
Copies of other reports published by the Joint Committee are also available on the Oireachtas Committee website pages at www.oireachtas.ie. A list of these reports is set out at section 7.
5. Number and Duration of Meetings
5.1 Joint Committee The Joint Committee met on 21 occasions during the period under report. The discussions involved in these meetings lasted approximately 32 hours.
The subject matter of each meeting of the Joint Committee, including the groups, organisations or individuals who attended the meetings, is detailed in Appendix 3. The Minutes of Proceedings of the Joint Committee in public session are attached at Appendix 4.
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Engagement with European Institutions
European Parliament
Engagement with MEPs from the Island of Ireland on 24 May 2017
On 21 September 2017, a meeting was held of three Joint Committees to engage with Mr Guy Verhofstadt MEP, European Parliament Brexit Coordinator
Members of the Joint Committee met with Mr James Temple- Smithson on 1 March 2017, to discuss the work of the European Parliament Information Office in Dublin
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Council of the European Union
Members of the Joint Committee met with HE Mrs Kristi Karelsohn, Ambassador of Estonia to Ireland, and discussed the priorities of the Estonian Presidency of the Council of the European Union
Both Mr Dara Murphy TD and Ms Helen McEntee TD, as Minister with responsibility for European Affairs, met the Joint Committee a number of times for engagements on the work of the General Affairs Council (GAC).
Also pictured here, with Minister McEntee, Mme Valérie Gomex-Bassac, Deputy of the French National Assembly
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European Commission
On 21 February 2017, a Joint meeting of the Joint Committee on European Union Affairs and the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade and Defence was held with Mr Frans Timmermans, First Vice-President of the European Commission
Mr Tibor Navracsics, European Commissioner for Education, Culture, Youth and Sport joined the Joint Committee on European Union Affairs for a meeting in December 2017
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Engagement on the Future of Europe
In 2017, the Joint Committee held a series of engagements on the Future of Europe, prompted by the European Commission’s White Paper. The series began with the Head of the European Commission Representation in Dublin, Mr Gerry Kiely, presenting the White Paper and followed engagements with Minister McEntee and a wide variety of interest representatives and experts.
European Commission Minister for European Affairs Mr Gerry Kiely, Head of the European Ms Helen McEntee Commission Office in Dublin
Ibec National Youth Council (NYCI) Dr Pat Ivory, Director of EU and Mr Robert Nesirky and Ms Vanessa International Affairs Mulhallon
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European Movement Ireland (EMI) Irish Creamery Milk Supplier Mr Maurice Pratt, Chairperson, and Ms Association (ICMSA) Noelle O’Connell, Executive Director Mr John Comer, President, and Mr John Enright, General Secretary Macra na Feirme Mr James Healy, National President
Irish Congress of Trade Union Ambassador of France to Ireland (Congress) HE Mr Stéphane Crouzat Mr Peter Rigney, Industrial Officer
Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) Environmental Pillar Mr Joe Healy, President and Mr Michael Ewing, Coordinator representatives Earth Institute, University College Dublin (UCD) Dr Eoin O’Neill and Dr Finbarr Brereton, Lecturers in Environmental Policy
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Social Justice Ireland Dr Seán Healy, CEO; and
European Anti-Poverty Network (EAPN) Ireland Mr Paul Ginnell, Policy Officer
Disability Federation of Ireland Ms Fiona O’Donovan, Policy and Research Assistant
European Commissioner for Education, Culture, Youth and Sport Mr Tibor Navracsics
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Engagement on the Withdrawal of the UK from the EU
The negotiations on the withdrawal of the UK from the European Union featured strongly in the work of the Joint Committee in 2017, both in engagements at Joint Committee meetings, and in a delegation visit to Brussels to meet many of the key policy makers and stakeholders in the negotiations.
Engagement with HE Robin Barnett CMG, British Ambassador to Ireland, JCEUA meeting on 4 April 2017
Meeting with Mr Michel Barnier, Chief Negotiator, Task Force for the Preparation and Conduct of the Negotiation with the United Kingdom under Article 50 TEU, European Commission
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Meeting with Mr Guy Verhofstadt, European Parliament Brexit Coordinator
Meeting with Ms Emily O’Reilly , European Ombudsman
Meeting with Mr Phil Hogan, European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development
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Meeting with MEPs from the Island of Ireland
Meeting with the Permanent Representative of Ireland to the United Kingdom, Mr Declan Kelleher, and colleagues
Meeting with Irish Members of the European Committee of the Regions
Meeting with representatives of Irish Organisations working in Brussels and other stakeholders
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5.2 Select Committee The Dáil Select Committee was not required to meet in 2017.
5.3 Informal Meetings An important part of the Committee’s work is to meet with incoming parliamentary delegations. Often for logistical reasons these take the form of informal meetings. The Joint Committee met informally with visiting parliamentary delegations and Ministers on 14 occasions during the period under report. In addition, the Chairman met informally with Ambassadors to Ireland from EU Member States and other stakeholders.
Informal Meetings held with delegations
Austria Austrian Federal Council (Bundesrat), led by Mr Edgar Mayer, President of the Austrian Federal Council European European Conservatives and Reformists(ECR) Customs Working Parliament Group
Denmark Danish Parliament’s Brexit Expert Monitoring Group, led by Chairman of EU Affairs Committee, Mr Erik Christensen
Estonia Estonian Parliament, led by President of the Riigikogu, Mr Eiki Nestor Germany The Bundestag, led by the President, Professor Norbert Lammert Hungary Hungarian National Assembly, led by the speaker Mr László Kóvér Latvia Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Edgars Rinkēvičs Romania Committee for Labour and Social Protection, Chamber of Deputies, led by Chair of the Committee, Mr Adrian Solomon Scotland Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Relations, Scottish Government, Ms Fiona Hyslop Slovenia National Assembly of the Republic of Slovenia, led by the Speaker, Dr Milan Brglez
UK/Ireland Committee B of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly UK House of Commons, Northern Ireland Affairs Committee, led by the Chair Mr Laurence Robertson
UK The Rt Hon the Baroness Armstrong of Hill Top, House of Lords UK House of Commons, Select Committee on Exiting the European Union, led by Chair, Rt Hon Hilary Benn
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Engagement with Visiting Parliamentary Delegations Denmark
A delegation representing the Danish Parliament (Folketinget) met with the Joint Committee on 11 September 2017 to consider the effect of British plans to leave the European Union. The Head of the delegation of the group was Mr Erik Christensen, who is also Chairman of the Danish European Union Affairs Committee.
Germany
A delegation led by the President of the German Bundestag, Prof Norbert Lammert met the Leas-Cheann Comhairle and Members of the Joint Committee on 23 February 2017. At the meeting issues of mutual interest and concern were discussed, including Brexit and the Future of the EU.
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Latvia
Meeting with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Latvia, Mr Edgars Rinkēvičs, accompanied by Ambassador Jānis Sīlis
United Kingdom
A delegation from the House of Commons’ Select Committee on Exiting the European Union met with Members of the Joint Committee and Members of the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs, Trade and Defence
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Members of the House of Commons’ Northern Ireland Affairs Committee (NIAC) visited Dublin and met with the Joint Committee and the Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement
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Informal Meetings held by the Chairman or Vice-Chairman
The Chairman, Michael Healy-Rae TD, assisted on occasion by the Vice- Chairman, Senator Terry Leyden, undertook to hold regular meetings with the diplomatic community posted to Ireland, visiting dignitaries and key stakeholders. The meetings were a chance to improve mutual understanding of key issues, the complexity of positions and priorities for the future.
Austria HE Dr Thomas Nader, Ambassador of Austria to Ireland Austria HE Dr Helmut Freudenschuss, Ambassador of Austria to Ireland Belgium HE Philippe Roland, Ambassador of Belgium to Ireland Bosnia & Mr Igor Crnadak, Minister of Foreign Affairs Herzegovina Bulgaria HE Mr Branimir Zaimov, Ambassador of Bulgaria to Ireland Finland Mr Timo Soini, Minister for Foreign Affairs Finland HE Ms Jaana Teckenberg, Ambassador of Finland to Ireland France Deputy Valérie Gomez-Bassac, Member of the European Affairs Committee, National Assembly of France France HE Mr Stéphane Crouzat, Ambassador of France to Ireland Georgia Mr George Zurabashvili, Envoy and Chargé d’Affaires of Georgia Germany HE Mr Matthias Höpfner, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Ireland Greece HE Katia Georgiou, Ambassador of Greece to Ireland Hungary HE Mr Istvan Pálffy, Ambassador of Hungary to Ireland Italy Mr Sandro Gozi, Under-Secretary for Foreign Affairs Latvia HE Mr Gints Apals, Ambassador of Latvia to Ireland Latvia HE Mr Jānis Sīlis, Ambassador of Latvia to Ireland Lithuania HE Mr Egidijus Meilūnas, Ambassador of Lithuania to Ireland Lithuania HE Ms Rasa Adomaitiené, Ambassador of Lithuania to Ireland Netherlands HE Mr Peter Kok, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Ireland and Mr Thom Kluck, Deputy Head of Mission Poland HE Mr Ryszard Sarkowicz, Ambassador of Poland to Ireland
Slovenia Mr Iztok Mirošič, State Secretary Sweden HE Ms Anna Brandt, Ambassador of Sweden to Ireland UK HE Mr Robin Barnett, Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Ireland Ukraine Mrs Olena Shaloput, Chargé d’Affaires European Mr James Temple-Smithson, Head of the European Parliament Parliament Office in Ireland
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Informal meetings with the Chairman and Vice-Chairman
Austria Belgium Bosnia and Herzegovina HE Dr Nader HE Mr Roland Mr Crnadak, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Finland France Bulgaria Mr Soini Finland Deputy Gomez- HE Mr Zaimov Minister for Foreign HE Ms Teckenberg Bassac Affairs
France Georgia and Ukraine HE Mr Crouzat Ms Shaloput and Mr Zurabashvili 20
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Greece Hungary Latvia Latvia HE Ms Georgiou HE Mr Pálffy HE Mr Apals HE Mr Sīlis
Lithuania Lithuania Netherlands Poland HE Mr Meilūnas HE Ms Adomaitiené HE Mr Kok HE Mr Sarkowicz
European Slovenia Sweden United Kingdom Parliament HE Mr Mirošič, HE Ms Brandt HE Mr Barnett Mr Temple- State Secretary Smithson
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6. Witnesses attending before the Joint Committee During the period, the number of speaking witnesses to the Joint Committee was 42.
7. Committee Reports Agreed During the period under report, the Joint Committee agreed Reports eight in total, as follows:
i. Annual Report 2016 ii. Meeting of the Chairpersons of COSAC, Malta, 22-23 January 2017 iii. Travel Report - Brussels 7-8 February 2017 iv. Annual Report on the Operation of the European Union (Scrutiny) Act 2002 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2016 v. Travel Report - COSAC Delegation Visit, Pozzallo, Italy, 5 – 6 May 2017 vi. COSAC LVII Plenary Meeting, Malta, 28-30 May 2017 vii. European Parliament High Level Conference on Migration Management, Brussels, Belgium, 21 June 2017 viii. Meeting of the Chairpersons of COSAC, Tallinn, Estonia, 9-10 July 2017
8. Travel The Joint Committee undertook the following travel in accordance with its Orders of Reference in connection with its work programme:
1. Purpose of travel COSAC Chairpersons meeting Destination Malta Date 22-23 January 2017 Member travelling Senator Terry Leyden (Vice-Chairman) Accompanying Officials Ivan Farmer (Policy Advisor)
2. Purpose of travel Discussions on Brexit Destination Brussels Date 7-8 February 2017 Members travelling Deputies Michael Healy-Rae (Chairman), Seán Crowe, Bernard Durkan, Seán Haughey, Senators Gerard P. Craughwell and Neale Richmond. Accompanying Official Heidi Lougheed (Clerk to the Committee)
3. Purpose of travel Migration crisis - COSAC Delegation Visit Destination Pozzallo, Sicily Date 5-6 May 2017 Members travelling Senator Gerard P. Craughwell Accompanying Official None
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4. Purpose of travel LVII COSAC Plenary Destination Malta Date 28 - 30 May 2017 Members travelling Deputies Colm Brophy, Bernard Durkan, Senators Terry Leyden(Vice-Chairman), Gerard P. Craughwell and Neale Richmond Accompanying Officials Heidi Lougheed (Clerk to the Committee) and Ivan Farmer (Policy Advisor)
5. Purpose of travel High Level Conference on Migration Management Destination Brussels Date 21 June 2017 Member travelling Senator Gerard P. Craughwell Accompanying Official None
6. Purpose of travel: COSAC Chairpersons meeting Destination Tallinn Date: 9-10 July 2017 Member travelling Senator Terry Leyden, (Vice-Chairman), Accompanying Official Rachel Breen (Committee Secretariat)
7. Purpose of travel Constitutional Affairs Committee (AFCO) Interparliamentary Committee meeting on the Future of Europe Destination Brussels Date 11 October 2017 Member travelling Senator Gerard P. Craughwell Accompanying Official None
8. Purpose of travel LVIII COSAC Plenary meeting Destination Tallinn Date 26 – 28 November 2017 Member travelling Senator Gerard P. Craughwell Accompanying Official Heidi Lougheed (Clerk to the Committee)
9. Report on Functions and Powers
The Joint Committee is currently satisfied with its present procedures and role.
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APPENDIX 1 Orders of Reference
Dáil Éireann on 5 July 2016 ordered:
“(1) Go gceapfar Roghchoiste, dá (1) That a Select Committee, which ngairfear an Roghchoiste um shall be called the Select Ghnóthaí an Aontais Eorpaigh, Committee on European Union ar a mbeidh seacht gcomhalta Affairs, consisting of seven de Dháil Éireann, chun members of Dáil Éireann, be breithniú a dhéanamh ar cibé appointed to consider such nithe a éiríonn— matters arising from— (a) as ballraíocht na hÉireann (a) Ireland’s membership of the san Aontas Eorpach, agus European Union, and (b) as Éirinn do chloí leis an (b) Ireland’s adherence to the gConradh ar an Aontas Treaty on European Union Eorpach agus leis an and the Treaty on the gConradh ar Fheidhmiú Functioning of the European an Aontais Eorpaigh, Union, a roghnóidh sé agus nach as it may select and which are bhfuil tarchurtha chuig aon not referred to any other Choiste eile. Committee. (2) Gan dochar do ghinearáltacht (2) Without prejudice to the mhír (1), breithneoidh an generality of paragraph (1), the Coiste— Select Committee shall consider such— (a) cibé Billí a bpléann an (a) Bills the statute law in Roinn Gnóthaí Eachtracha respect of which is dealt agus Trádála leis an dlí with by the Department of reachtach ina leith, Foreign Affairs and Trade, (b) cibé tograí a bheidh in (b) proposals contained in any aon tairiscint, lena n- motion, including any áirítear aon tairiscint de motion within the meaning réir bhrí Bhuan-Ordú 187, of Standing Order 187, and agus (c) cibé nithe eile, (c) other matters, a tharchuirfidh an Dáil chuige. as shall be referred to it by the Dáil. (3) Beidh an tAire Gnóthaí (3) The Minister for Foreign Affairs Eachtracha agus Trádála (nó and Trade (or a member of the comhalta den Rialtas nó Aire Government or Minister of State Stáit a ainmneofar chun nominated to act in his or her gníomhú ina áit nó ina háit stead for that purpose) shall be chun na críche sin), ina an ex officio member of the chomhalta nó ina comhalta ex Select Committee for the officio den Roghchoiste chun purpose of consideration of the na nithe atá leagtha amach i matters outlined at paragraph mír (2)(a) agus (b) a (2)(a) and (b) and shall be 24
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bhreithniú agus beidh sé nó sí entitled to vote in Select i dteideal vótáil in imeachtaí Committee proceedings. an Roghchoiste. (4) Beidh ag an Roghchoiste na (4) The Select Committee shall have cumhachtaí a mhínítear i the powers defined in Standing mBuan-Ordú 85(1), (2) agus Order 85(1), (2) and (3). (3). (5) Déanfar an Roghchoiste a (5) The Select Committee shall be chomhcheangal le joined with a Select Committee Roghchoiste arna cheapadh appointed by Seanad Éireann, to ag Seanad Éireann chun form the Joint Committee on bheith ina Chomhchoiste um European Union Affairs, which, Ghnóthaí an Aontais Eorpaigh, without prejudice to the agus, gan dochar do generality of paragraph (1), ghinearáltacht mhír (1), shall consider— déanfaidh an Roghchoiste an méid seo a leanas a bhreithniú— (a) doiciméid phleanála (a) the EU Commission’s straitéiseacha Choimisiún strategic planning AE lena n-áirítear Clár documents including the Oibre an Choimisiúin, Commission Work Programme, (b) forbairtí beartais tras- (b) cross-sectoral policy earnála ag leibhéal an developments at European Aontais Eorpaigh, Union level, (c) nithe a liostaítear lena (c) matters listed for mbreithniú ar an gclár consideration on the agenda gnó i gcomhair cruinnithe for meetings of the General de Chomhairle Gnóthaí Affairs Council of Ministers Ginearálta na nAirí agus and the outcome of such toradh cruinnithe den meetings, sórt sin, (d) cibé rialacháin faoi (d) such regulations under the Achtanna na European Communities Acts gComhphobal Eorpach, 1972 to 2009 and other 1972 go 2009 agus instruments made under ionstraimí eile arna statute and necessitated by ndéanamh faoi reacht the obligations of agus is gá de dhroim na membership of the n-oibleagáidí a ghabhann European Union as the le ballraíocht san Aontas Committee may select, Eorpach a roghnóidh an Coiste, (e) fógraí arna dtarchur ag (e) notifications referred by the an Dáil faoi Bhuan-Ordú Dáil under Standing Order 115(1)(a), 115(1)(a),
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(f) fógraí i dtaobh tograí (f) notifications of proposals for chun na Conarthaí a the amendment of the leasú a fuarthas ón Treaties received from the gComhairle Eorpach de European Council pursuant bhun Airteagal 48.2 den to Article 48.2 of the Treaty Chonradh ar an Aontas on European Union, Eorpach, (g) fógraí i dtaobh iarratas ar (g) notifications of applications bhallraíocht san Aontas for membership of the Eorpach a fuarthas ón European Union received gComhairle Eorpach de from the European Council bhun Airteagal 49 den pursuant to Article 49 of the Chonradh ar an Aontas Treaty on European Union, Eorpach, agus and (h) cibé nithe eile a (h) such other matters as may tharchuirfidh an Dáil be referred to it by the Dáil chuige ó am go ham. from time to time.
(6) Tabharfaidh an Comhchoiste (6) The Joint Committee shall report tuarascáil do dhá Theach an to both Houses of the Oireachtais ar oibriú Acht an Oireachtas on the operation of Aontais Eorpaigh the European Union (Scrutiny) (Grinnscrúdú), 2002. Act 2002. (7) Beidh ag an gComhchoiste na (7) The Joint Committee shall have cumhachtaí a mhínítear i the powers defined in Standing mBuan-Orduithe 85 (seachas Orders 85 (other than mír (2A) den chéanna), 114, paragraph (2A) thereof), 114, 115(1)(a) agus 116. 115(1)(a) and 116. (8) Beidh ag an gComhchoiste an (8) The Joint Committee shall have chumhacht chun moltaí a the power to make dhéanamh chun an Aire recommendations to the Gnóthaí Eachtracha agus Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trádála (nó chun Aire Stáit) i Trade (or Minister of State) on dtaobh nithe a bhaineann leis European Union matters. an Aontas Eorpach. (9) Féadfaidh na daoine seo a (9) The following may attend leanas freastal ar chruinnithe meetings of the Joint Committee den Chomhchoiste agus páirt and take part in proceedings a ghlacadh in imeachtaí gan without having a right to vote or ceart vótála a bheith acu ná to move motions and ceart tairiscintí a dhéanamh amendments: ná leasuithe a thairiscint: (a) omhaltaí de Pharlaimint (a) Members of the European na hEorpa arna dtoghadh Parliament elected from ó thoghcheantair in constituencies in Ireland, 26
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Éirinn, lena n-áirítear including Northern Ireland, Tuaisceart Éireann, (b) Comhaltaí de (b) Members of the Irish thoscaireacht na hÉireann delegation to the chuig Tionól Parliamentary Assembly of Parlaiminteach the Council of Europe, and Chomhairle na hEorpa, agus (c) ar chuireadh a fháil ón (c) at the invitation of the gCoiste, Comhaltaí eile Committee, other Members de Pharlaimint na hEorpa. of the European Parliament. (10) Déanfaidh an Comhchoiste (10) The Joint Committee shall ionadaíocht do dhá Theach an represent both Houses of the Oireachtais ag Comhdháil na Oireachtas at the Conference of gCoistí um Ghnóthaí Community and European Comhphobail agus Eorpacha Affairs Committees of de chuid Pharlaimintí an Parliaments of the European Aontais Eorpaigh (COSAC) Union (COSAC) and shall report agus tabharfaidh sé tuarascáil to both Houses of the ar an gcéanna do dhá Theach Oireachtas thereon. an Oireachtais. (11) Beidh Cathaoirleach an (11) The Chairman of the Dáil Select Roghchoiste Dála ina Committee shall also be the Cathaoirleach ar an Chairman of the Joint Chomhchoiste freisin. Committee.”
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Seanad Éireann on 21 July 2016 ordered:
“(1) Go gceapfar Roghchoiste, dá (1) That a Select Committee, which ngairfear an Roghchoiste um shall be called the Select Ghnóthaí an Aontais Eorpaigh, Committee on European Union ar a mbeidh ceathrar gcomhalta Affairs, consisting of four de Sheanad Éireann, chun members of Seanad Éireann, be breithniú a dhéanamh ar cibé appointed to consider such nithe a éiríonn— matters arising from—
(a) as ballraíocht na hÉireann (a) Ireland’s membership of san Aontas Eorpach, agus the European Union, and
(b) as Éirinn do chloí leis an (b) Ireland’s adherence to the gConradh ar an Aontas Treaty on European Union Eorpach agus leis an and the Treaty on the gConradh ar Fheidhmiú an Functioning of the European Aontais Eorpaigh Union,
a roghnóidh sé agus nach bhfuil as it may select and which are tarchurtha chuig aon Choiste not referred to any other eile. Committee.
(2) Beidh ag an Roghchoiste na (2) The Select Committee shall cumhachtaí a mhínítear i have the powers defined in mBuan-Ordú 71(1), (2) agus Standing Order 71(1), (2) and (3). (3).
(3) Déanfar an Roghchoiste a (3) The Select Committee shall be chomhcheangal le Roghchoiste joined with a Select Committee arna cheapadh ag Dáil Éireann appointed by Dáil Éireann, to chun bheith ina Chomhchoiste form the Joint Committee on um Ghnóthaí an Aontais European Union Affairs, which, Eorpaigh, agus, gan dochar do without prejudice to the ghinearáltacht mhír (1), generality of paragraph (1), déanfaidh an Comhchoiste an shall consider— méid seo a leanas a bhreithniú—
(a) doiciméid phleanála (a) the EU Commission’s straitéiseacha Choimisiún strategic planning 28
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AE lena n-áirítear Clár documents including the Oibre an Choimisiúin, Commission Work Programme,
(b) forbairtí beartais tras- (b) cross-sectoral policy earnála ag leibhéal an developments at European Aontais Eorpaigh, Union level,
(c) nithe a liostaítear lena (c) matters listed for mbreithniú ar an gclár gnó i consideration on the gcomhair cruinnithe de agenda for meetings of the Chomhairle Gnóthaí General Affairs Council of Ginearálta na nAirí agus Ministers and the outcome toradh cruinnithe den sórt of such meetings, sin.
(d) cibé rialacháin faoi (d) such regulations under the Achtanna na gComhphobal European Communities Acts Eorpach, 1972 go 2009 1972 to 2009 and other agus ionstraimí eile arna instruments made under ndéanamh faoi reacht agus statute and necessitated by is gá de dhroim na n- the obligations of oibleagáidí a ghabhann le membership of the ballraíocht san Aontas EuropeanUnion as the Eorpach a roghnóidh an Committee may select, Coiste,
(e) fógraí arna dtarchur ag an (e) notifications referred by the Seanad faoi Bhuan-Ordú Seanad under Standing 108(1)(a), Order 108 (1)(a),
(f) fógraí i dtaobh tograí chun (f) notifications of proposals na Conarthaí a leasú a for the amendment of the fuarthas ón gComhairle Treaties received from the Eorpach de bhun Airteagal European Council pursuant 48.2 den Chonradh ar an to Article 48.2 of the Treaty Aontas Eorpach, on European Union,
(g) fógraí i dtaobh iarratas ar (g) notifications of applications bhallraíocht san Aontas for membership of the Eorpach a fuarthas ón European Union received gComhairle Eorpach de from the European Council 29
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bhun Airteagal 49 den pursuant to Article 49 of Chonradh ar an Aontas the Treaty on European Eorpach, agus Union, and
(h) cibé nithe eile a (h) such other matters as may tharchuirfidh an Seanad be referred to it by the chuige ó am go ham. Seanad from time to time.
(4) Tabharfaidh an Comhchoiste (4) The Joint Committee shall tuarascáil do dhá Theach an report to both Houses of the Oireachtais ar oibriú Acht an Oireachtas on the operation of Aontais Eorpaigh (Grinnscrúdú), the European Union (Scrutiny) 2002. Act 2002.
(5) Beidh ag an gComhchoiste na (5) The Joint Committee shall have cumhachtaí a mhínítear i the powers defined in Standing mBuan-Orduithe 71 (seachas Orders 71 (other than mír (2A) den chéanna), 107, paragraph (2A) thereof), 107, 108(1)(a) agus 109. 108(1)(a) and 109.
(6) Beidh ag an gComhchoiste an (6) The Joint Committee shall have chumhacht chun moltaí a the power to make dhéanamh chun an Aire Gnóthaí recommendations to the Eachtracha agus Trádála (nó Minister for Foreign Affairs and chun Aire Stáit) i dtaobh nithe a Trade (or Minister of State) on bhaineann leis an Aontas European Union matters. Eorpach.
(7) Féadfaidh na daoine seo a (7) The following may attend leanas freastal ar chruinnithe meetings of the Joint den Chomhchoiste agus páirt a Committee and take part in ghlacadh in imeachtaí gan ceart proceedings without having a vótála a bheith acu ná ceart right to vote or to move tairiscintí a dhéanamh ná motions and amendments: leasuithe a thairiscint:
(a) Comhaltaí de Pharlaimint (a) Members of the European na hEorpa arna dtoghadh ó Parliament elected from thoghlaigh in Éirinn, lena n- constituencies in Ireland,
30
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
áirítear Tuaisceart Éireann, including Northern Ireland,
(b) Comhaltaí de thoscaireacht (b) Members of the Irish na hÉireann chuig Tionól delegation to the Parlaiminteach Chomhairle Parliamentary Assembly of na hEorpa, agus the Council of Europe, and
(c) ar chuireadh a fháil ón (c) at the invitation of the gCoiste, Comhaltaí eile de Committee, other Members Pharlaimint na hEorpa. of the European Parliament.
(8) Déanfaidh an Comhchoiste (8) The Joint Committee shall ionadaíocht do dhá Theach an represent both Houses of the Oireachtais ag Comhdháil na Oireachtas at the Conference of gCoistí um Ghnóthaí Community and European Comhphobail agus Eorpacha de Affairs Committees of chuid Pharlaimintí an Aontais Parliaments of the European Eorpaigh (COSAC) agus Union (COSAC) and shall report tabharfaidh sé tuarascáil ar an to both Houses of the gcéanna do dhá Theach an Oireachtas thereon. Oireachtais.
(9) Beidh Cathaoirleach an (9) The Chairman of the Dail Select Roghchoiste Dála ina Committee shall also be the Cathaoirleach ar an Chairman of the Joint Chomhchoiste freisin. Committee.”.
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APPENDIX 2 Membership
List of Members (Joint Committee)
Chairman Michael Healy-Rae TD (RIG)
Deputies Colm Brophy TD (FG) David Cullinane TD1 (SF) Bernard J. Durkan TD (FG) Seán Haughey TD (FF) Mattie McGrath TD (RIG) Frank O’Rourke TD (FF)
Senators Paul Coghlan (FG) Gerard P. Craughwell (Ind) Terry Leyden (FF) Neale Richmond (FG)
1 Deputy Cullinane replaced Deputy Seán Crowe with effect from 28 September 2017 32
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APPENDIX 3 Meetings of the Joint Committee
The following are the details, in date order, of the scheduled meetings of the Joint Committee which took place during the period under report.
Meeting Topic Organisations, Groups and No. and Individuals who attended Date J 07 (i) European Mr Gerry Kiely, Head of 18/1/2017 Commission’s Representation, European Annual Work Commission Representation in Programme and the Ireland work of the European Commission Representation in Ireland
(ii) Policy implications Mr Alex Dunne, Ecumenical for the European Accompaniment Programme in Union of the Palestine & Israel (EAPPI) and Ms Ecumenical Jenny Derbyshire (EAPPI) Accompaniment Programme in Palestine & Israel’s (EAPPI) work J 08 Private Meeting 1/2/2017
J 09 Briefing on the work of Mr Dara Murphy, TD, Minister of 15/2/2017 the General Affairs State for European Affairs Council (GAC) and key developments on the European Agenda J 10 Discussion with the First Mr Frans Timmermans, First 21/2/2017 Vice-President of the Vice-President of the European European Commission Commission
J 11 Briefing on the work of Mr James Temple-Smithson, 1/3/17 the European Parliament Head of Office, European Liaison Office in Dublin Parliament Liaison Office
J 12 Private Meeting 29/3/17
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Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
Meeting Topic Organisations, Groups and No. and Individuals who attended Date J 13 Engagement on the HE Robin Barnett CMG, British 4/4/17 United Kingdom’s plans Ambassador to Ireland for withdrawal from the European Union, following notification under Article 50 (2) TEU to the European Council of the UK’s intention to withdraw from the European Union.
J 14 Engagement on: Mr Dara Murphy, TD, Minister of 12/4/17 State for European Affairs (i) Work of the General Affairs Council (GAC); (ii) Key developments with regard to the UK’s notification of their intention to withdraw from the European Union; (iii) Future of Europe; and (iv) Ireland and the European Semester Process 2017.
J 15 European Semester: (i) Professor Alan Barrett 10/5/17 and Dr Edgar Engagement on the Morgenroth, ESRI National Reform Programme (ii) Ms Michelle Murphy, Research and Policy Analyst and Mr Eamon Murphy, Economic and Social Analyst, Social Justice Ireland
J 16 Engagement with MEPs MEPs from the Island of Ireland: 24/5/17 from the Island of Ireland Ms Mairead McGuinness MEP Mr Matt Carthy MEP Ms Marian Harkin MEP Mr Luke Ming Flanagan MEP Mr Seán Kelly MEP Ms Martina Anderson MEP
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Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
Meeting Topic Organisations, Groups and No. and Individuals who attended Date J 17 White Paper on the Mr Gerry Kiely, Head of 21/6/17 Future of Europe Representation, European Commission Representation in Ireland J 18 (i) Briefing on key Ms Helen McEntee TD, Minister of 5/7/17 developments on State for European Affairs the European Agenda
(ii) The priorities of the Estonian Presidency HE Mrs Kristi Karelsohn, of the Council of the Ambassador of Estonia to Ireland European Union
J 19 Private Meeting 12/7/17
J 20 Future of Europe (i) Ms Vanessa Mulhall and 20/9/17 Mr Robert Nesirky, National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI)
(ii) Dr Pat Ivory, Director of EU and International Affairs, Ibec
J 21 Special meeting of the Mr Guy Verhofstadt MEP, 21/9/17 Joint Committee on European Parliament Brexit European Union Affairs Coordinator. meeting with the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Defence and the Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement
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Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
Meeting Topic Organisations, Groups and No. and Individuals who attended Date J 22 Future of Europe (i) Mr Maurice Pratt, 4/10/17 Chairperson and Ms Noelle O’Connell, Executive Director, European Movement Ireland (EMI)
(ii) Mr John Comer, President and Mr John Enright, General Secretary, Irish Creamery Milk Supplier Association (ICMSA); and Mr James Healy, National President, Macra na Feirme, J 23 Future of Europe (i) Mr Peter Rigney, 18/10/17 Industrial Officer, Congress (Irish Congress of Trade Unions)
(ii) HE Mr Stéphane Crouzat, Ambassador of France to Ireland
J 24 Key developments on the Ms Helen McEntee TD, Minister of 9/11/17 European Agenda State for European Affairs
J 25 Future of Europe Mr Joe Healy, President, and Mr 15/11/17 Damian McDonald, Director General, Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA)
J 26 Future of Europe (i) Dr Eoin O’Neill and Dr 29/11/17 Finbarr Brereton, Lecturers in Environmental Policy, University College Dublin (UCD) Earth Institute; Mr Michael Ewing, Coordinator, The Environmental Pillar
(ii) Mr Paul Ginnell, Policy Officer, European Anti- Poverty Network (EAPN) Ireland; Dr Seán Healy, CEO, Social Justice Ireland
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Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
Meeting Topic Organisations, Groups and No. and Individuals who attended Date J 27 Future of Europe (i) Ms Fiona O’Donovan, 13/12/17 Policy and Research Assistant, Disability Federation of Ireland
(ii) Mr Tibor Navracsics, European Commissioner for Education, Culture, Youth and Sport
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Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
APPENDIX 4 Minutes of Proceedings of the Joint Committee
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS MINUTES OF MEETING OF 18TH JANUARY 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in public session at 2.03 p.m. in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present:
Deputies: Michael Healy-Rae (Chairman), Seán Crowe, Séan Haughey, Frank O’Rourke.
Senators: Paul Coghlan, Gerard P. Craughwell, and Neale Richmond
Apologies received from Deputy Colm Brophy and Senator Terry Leyden
Deputy Eamon Scanlon also attended
3. ENGAGEMENT ON THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION’S ANNUAL WORK PROGRAMME AND THE WORK OF THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION REPRESENTATION IN IRELAND [MR GERRY KIELY, HEAD OF REPRESENTATION, EUROPEAN COMMISSION REPRESENTATION IN IRELAND] The Committee met with Mr Gerry Kiely, Head of Representation, European Commission Representation in Ireland to discuss European Commission’s Annual Work Programme and the work of the European Commission Representation in Ireland. Following a presentation by Mr Kiely, a question and answer session ensued with the members of the Committee.
On conclusion, the Chairman thanked Mr Kiely for his engagement with the Committee.
4. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 3.06 p.m.
The Committee resumed in Public Session at 3.09 p.m.
In the unavoidable absence of the Chairman; Deputy Sean Haughey took the Chair.
5. POLICY IMPLICATIONS FOR THE EUROPEAN UNION OF THE ECUMENICAL ACCOMPANIMENT PROGRAMME IN PALESTINE & ISRAEL’S WORK [MR ALEX DUNNE AND MS JENNY DERBYSHIRE ECUMENICAL ACCOMPANIMENT PROGRAMME IN PALESTINE & ISRAEL (EAPPI)] The Committee met with Mr Alex Dunne and Ms Jenny Derbyshire from the Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine & Israel (EAPPI) to discuss the Policy implications for the European Union of the Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine & Israel’s 38
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
work. Following a presentation by Mr Dunne and Ms Derbyshire, a question and answer session ensued with the members of the Committee.
On conclusion, the Chairman thanked Mr Dunne and Ms Derbyshire for their engagement with the Committee.
6. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 3.53 p.m.
The Committee resumed in Private Session at 3.54 p.m.
7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
8. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
9. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
10. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
11. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
12. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
13. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
The Committee adjourned at 4.18 p.m. until Wednesday, 1st February 2017.
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman 1 February, 2017.
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Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 1ST FEBRUARY 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in private session at 2.01 p.m. in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present:
Deputies: Colm Brophy, Seán Crowe, Bernard Durkan and Seán Haughey.
Senators: Terry Leyden (in the chair), Paul Coghlan, Gerard P. Craughwell and Neale Richmond.
Apologies received from Deputies Michael Healy-Rae and Frank O’Rourke.
3. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
4. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
8. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
9. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
10. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
The Committee adjourned at 2.53 p.m. until Wednesday, 15th February 2017.
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman
15 February, 2017
40
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 15TH FEBRUARY 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in public session at 1.34 p.m. in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present:
Deputies: Michael Healy-Rae (in the Chair), Seán Crowe, Bernard Durkan, Séan Haughey and Frank O’Rourke.
Senators: Gerard P. Craughwell, Terry Leyden and Neale Richmond.
Apologies were received from Senator Paul Coghlan.
3. ENGAGEMENT ON THE WORK OF THE GENERAL AFFAIRS COUNCIL (GAC) [MR DARA MURPHY TD, MINISTER OF STATE WITH SPECIAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR EUROPEAN AFFAIRS] The Committee met with Minister Dara Murphy to discuss the work of the General Affairs Council (GAC) and key developments on the European Agenda.
Following an opening statement by the Minister, a question and answer session with Members ensued. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the Minister for his engagement with the Committee.
4. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 2.38 p.m.
The Committee resumed in Private Session at 2.38 p.m.
5. Item Discussed in Private Session
6. Item Discussed in Private Session
7. Item Discussed in Private Session
8. Item Discussed in Private Session
9. Item Discussed in Private Session
10. Item Discussed in Private Session
The Committee adjourned at 2.55 p.m. until Tuesday, 21st February 2017.
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman 1 March, 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 21ST FEBRUARY 2017
1. A Joint meeting of the Joint Committee on European Affairs and the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade and Defence was held, a quorum being present.
The meeting commenced in public session at 12:30 p.m in Committee Room 2, Leinster House 2000.
2. ATTENDANCE The following members were present:
Joint Committee on European Affairs: Deputies: Colm Brophy, Sean Crowe, Bernard Durkan, Sean Haughey, Michael Healy Rae, Frank O’Rourke,
Senators: Paul Coghlan, Gerard P. Craughwell, and Neale Richmond
Apologies were received from Deputy Mattie McGrath
Brain Hayes MEP and Deputy Declan Breathnach were also in attendance.
Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade and Defence: Deputies: Brendan Smith (Chairperson), Sean Barrett, Sean Crowe, Noel Grealish, Darragh O’ Brien
Senators: Ivan Bacik and Billy Lawless
Apologies were received from Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan
3. DISCUSSIONS WITH MR. FRANS TIMMERMANS FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT OF THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION The Committee met in public session with Mr Frans Timmermans, First Vice-President of the European Commission to discuss issues concerning the future of the EU, the migration crisis, Europe’s Common Foreign and Security Policy and the challenges that Brexit poses to the island of Ireland and Europe as a whole.
Following brief opening remarks, a questions and answers session with the members present followed.
4. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 13:56 p.m. ______Michael Healy-Rae TD, Chairman, 29th March, 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 1TH MARCH 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in public session at 2.01 p.m. in Committee Room 3, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present:
Deputies: Michael Healy-Rae (in the Chair), Colm Brophy, Seán Crowe, Bernard Durkan, Séan Haughey, Mattie McGrath and Frank O’Rourke.
Senators: Paul Coghlan and Terry Leyden.
Apologies were received from Senator Gerard P. Craughwell and Neale Richmond.
3. BRIEFING ON THE WORK OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT INFORMATION OFFICE IN DUBLIN [MR JAMES TEMPLE-SMITHSON, HEAD OF OFFICE, EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT INFORMATION OFFICE] The Committee met with Mr James Temple-Smithson to discuss the work of the European Parliament Information Office in Dublin.
Following an opening statement by Mr Temple-Smithson, a question and answer session with Members ensued. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked Mr Temple-Smithson for his engagement with the Committee.
4. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 2.50 p.m.
The Committee resumed in Private Session at 2.51 p.m.
5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
8. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
9. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
10. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
The Committee adjourned at 3.25 p.m. until Thursday, 29th March 2017.
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman 29 March, 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 29TH MARCH 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in private session at 2.09 p.m. in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present:
Deputies: Michael Healy-Rae (in the Chair), Bernard Durkan, Séan Haughey, Mattie McGrath and Frank O’Rourke.
Senators: Paul Coghlan, Gerard P. Craughwell, Terry Leyden and Neale Richmond.
Apologies were received from Deputy Seán Crowe.
3. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
4. ITEM DiSCUSSED In PRIVATE SESSION
5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
The Committee adjourned at 2.33 p.m. until Tuesday, 4th April 2017.
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman
12 April, 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 4TH APRIL 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in public session at 12.00 p.m. in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present:
Deputies: Michael Healy-Rae (in the Chair), Seán Crowe, Bernard Durkan, Séan Haughey and Mattie McGrath.
Senators: Paul Coghlan, Gerard P. Craughwell, Terry Leyden and Neale Richmond.
Apologies were received from Deputies Colm Brophy and Frank O’Rourke.
Deputy Declan Breathnach and Senator Mark Daly also attended in accordance with Standing Orders.
Senator Terry Leyden (Vice-Chairman) took the Chair at 12.51 p.m.
3. Engagement on the United Kingdom’s plans for withdrawal from the European Union, following notification under Article 50 (2) TEU to the European Council of the UK’s intention to withdraw from the European Union. HE Robin Barnett CMG, British Ambassador to Ireland, attended the Meeting and, following an opening statement by Ambassador Barnett, a question and answer session with Members ensued. On conclusion, the Vice-Chairman thanked Ambassador Barnett for his engagement with the Committee.
4. ANY OTHER BUSINESS No matters arising.
5. ADJOURNMENT
The Committee adjourned at 13.23 p.m. until 12th April at 2 p.m.
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman
12 April 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 12TH APRIL 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in public session at 2.08 p.m. in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present:
Deputies: Michael Healy-Rae (in the Chair), Colm Brophy, Seán Crowe, Bernard Durkan, Séan Haughey, Mattie McGrath Frank O’Rourke. Senators: Gerard P. Craughwell and Terry Leyden. Apologies were received from Senators Paul Coghlan and Neale Richmond.
3. ENGAGEMENT ON (I) WORK OF THE GENERAL AFFAIRS COUNCIL (GAC); (II) KEY DEVELOPMENTS WITH REGARD TO THE UK’S NOTIFICATION OF THEIR INTENTION TO WITHDRAW FROM THE EUROPEAN UNION; (III)FUTURE OF EUROPE; AND (IV) IRELAND AND THE EUROPEAN SEMESTER PROCESS 2017 [MR DARA MURPHY TD, MINISTER OF STATE WITH SPECIAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR EUROPEAN AFFAIRS] The Committee met with Minister Dara Murphy to discuss the work of the General Affairs Council (GAC); key developments on the European Agenda; Future of Europe; and Ireland and the European Semester Process 2017.
Following an opening statement by the Minister, a question and answer session with Members ensued. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the Minister for his engagement with the Committee.
4. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 3.08 p.m.
The Committee resumed in Private Session at 3.09 p.m.
5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
8. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
9. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
10. ADJOURNMENT
The Committee adjourned at 15.35 p.m. until 10th May at 2 p.m.
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman 10 May 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 10TH MAY 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in public session at 2.05 p.m. in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present:
Deputies: Michael Healy-Rae (in the Chair), Colm Brophy, Seán Crowe, Bernard Durkan, Séan Haughey, Mattie McGrath, Frank O’Rourke.
Senators: Paul Coghlan, Gerard P. Craughwell, Terry Leyden (temporary chair from 2.05 p.m. – 2.55 p.m.) and Neale Richmond.
3. EUROPEAN SEMESTER - ENGAGEMENT ON THE NATIONAL REFORM PROGRAMME[PROFESSOR ALAN BARRETT AND DR EDGAR MORGENROTH, ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE [ESRI] ] The Committee met with Professor Alan Barrett and Dr Edgar Morgenroth from the ESRI to discuss the European Semester process in 2017.
Following an opening statement by Professor Barrett, a question and answer session with Members ensued. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the speakers for their engagement with the Committee.
4. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 3.33 p.m.
The Committee resumed in Public Session at 3.36 p.m.
5. EUROPEAN SEMESTER - ENGAGEMENT ON THE NATIONAL REFORM PROGRAMME[MS MICHELLE MURPHY, RESEARCH AND POLICY ANALYST AND MR EAMON MURPHY, ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL ANALYST, SOCIAL JUSTICE IRELAND] The Committee met with Ms Michelle Murphy, Research and Policy Analyst and Mr Eamon Murphy, Economic and Social Analyst, Social Justice Ireland.
Following an opening statement by Ms Michelle Murphy, a question and answer session with Members ensued. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the speakers for their engagement with the Committee.
6. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 4.12 p.m. The Committee resumed in Private Session at 4.14 p.m.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
8. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
9. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
10. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
11. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
12. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
13. ADJOURNMENT
The Committee adjourned at 4.23 p.m. until 24th May at 2 p.m.
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman
24 May 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 24TH MAY 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in public session at 2.05 p.m. in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present: Deputies: Michael Healy-Rae (in the Chair), Colm Brophy, Bernard Durkan, Séan Haughey, Mattie McGrath, Frank O’Rourke.
Senators: Paul Coghlan, Terry Leyden and Neale Richmond. Apologies received from Deputy Seán Crowe and Senator Gerard P. Craughwell. Deputy Martin Kenny attended in substitution for Deputy Seán Crowe. Also in attendance: Deputy Eamon Ryan and Senator Niall Ó Donnghaile
3. ENGAGEMENT WITH MEPS FROM THE ISLAND OF IRELAND The Committee met with Ms Mairead McGuinness MEP, Mr Matt Carthy MEP, Ms Marian Harkin MEP, Mr Luke Ming Flanagan MEP, Mr Sean Kelly MEP and Ms Martina Anderson MEP to discuss various EU matters.
Following opening statements by the MEPs, a question and answer session with Members ensued. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the speakers for their engagement with the Committee.
4. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 4.09 p.m. The Committee resumed in Private Session at 4.10 p.m.
5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION 6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION 7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION 8. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION 9. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION 10. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION 11. ADJOURNMENT
The Committee adjourned at 4.17 p.m. until 21st June at 2 p.m.
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman
21 June 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 21ST JUNE 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in public session at 2.00 p.m. in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present:
Deputies: Michael Healy-Rae (in the Chair), Colm Brophy, Seán Crowe, Bernard Durkan, Séan Haughey, Mattie McGrath and Frank O’Rourke.
Senators: Paul Coghlan, Terry Leyden and Neale Richmond.
Apologies received Senator Gerard P. Craughwell.
3. ENGAGEMENT ON THE WHITE PAPER ON THE FUTURE OF EUROPE [MR GERRY KIELY, HEAD OF REPRESENTATION, EUROPEAN COMMISSION REPRESENTATION IN IRELAND] The Committee met with Mr Gerry Kiely, Head of Representation and Mr Andy Klom, European Commission Representation in Ireland
Following opening statements by Mr Kiely a question and answer session with Members ensued. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the witnesses for their engagement with the Committee.
4. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 2.53 p.m.
The Committee resumed in Private Session at 2.55 p.m.
5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
8. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
9. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
10. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
11. ADJOURNMENT
The Committee adjourned at 3.05 p.m. until 5th July at 2 p.m.
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman 5 July 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 5TH JULY 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in public session at 2.01 p.m. in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present:
Deputies: Michael Healy-Rae (in the Chair), Colm Brophy, Seán Crowe, Bernard Durkan, Séan Haughey and Frank O’Rourke.
Senators: Paul Coghlan, Terry Leyden, Gerard P. Craughwell and Neale Richmond.
3. ENGAGEMENT ON THE KEY DEVELOPMENTS ON THE EUROPEAN UNION [MS HELEN MCENTEE, MINISTER OF STATE WITH SPECIAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR EUROPEAN AFFAIRS] The Committee met with Ms Helen McEntee, Minister of State with Special Responsibility for European Affairs.
Following an opening statement by Minister McEntee a question and answer session with Members ensued. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the Minister for her engagement with the Committee.
4. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 2.41 p.m.
The Committee resumed in Public Session at 2.47 p.m.
5. ENGAGEMENT ON THE PRIORITIES OF THE ESTONIAN PRESIDENCY OF THE COUNCIL OF THE EU [HER EXCELLENCY MRS KRISTI KARELSOHN , AMBASSADOR OF ESTONIA TO IRELAND] The Committee met with HE Mrs Kristi Karelsohn, Ambassador of Estonia to Ireland.
Following opening statements by Ambassador Karelsohn, a question and answer session with Members ensued.
6. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 3.22 p.m.
The Committee resumed in Public Session at 3.25 p.m.
7. ENGAGEMENT ON THE PRIORITIES OF THE ESTONIAN PRESIDENCY OF THE COUNCIL OF THE EU [HER EXCELLENCY MRS KRISTI KARELSOHN , AMBASSADOR OF ESTONIA TO IRELAND] The Committee resumed their question and answer session with Ambassador Karelsohn. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the Ambassador for her engagement with the Committee.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
8. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 4.09 p.m.
The Committee resumed in Private Session at 4.11 p.m.
9. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
10. Item Discussed in Private Session
11. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
12. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
13. ADJOURNMENT
The Committee adjourned at 4.18 p.m. sine die
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman
12 July 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 12TH JULY 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in private session at 3.35 p.m. in Committee Room 4, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present:
Deputies: Michael Healy-Rae (in the Chair), Seán Crowe and Séan Haughey.
Senators: Paul Coghlan (temporary Chair from 3.36 p.m. to 3.50 p.m.)
Also in attendance: Senator Frances Black.
Apologies received: Deputies Bernard Durkan, Frank O’Rourke and Senators Terry Leyden, Gerard P. Craughwell and Neale Richmond.
3. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
4. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
7. ADJOURNMENT
The Committee adjourned at 3.50 p.m. until Wednesday, 20th September 2017
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman
20 September 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 20TH SEPTEMBER 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in public session at 12.17 p.m. in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present:
Deputies: Michael Healy-Rae (in the Chair), Brendan Durkan, Seán Haughey and Frank O’Rourke.
Senators: Paul Coghlan, Gerard P. Craughwell and Terry Leyden.
Apologies received from Senators Colm Brophy and Seán Crowe.
3. ENGAGEMENT ON THE FUTURE OF EUROPE [MS VANESSA MULHALL AND MR ROBERT NESIRKY, YOUTH REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE NATIONAL YOUTH COUNCIL (NYCI)] The Committee met with Ms Vanessa Mulhall and Mr Robert Nesirky, Youth Representatives from the National Youth Council (NYCI).
Following a presentation by Ms Muhall and Mr Nesirky, a question and answer session ensued with the members of the Committee. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the witnesses for their engagement with the Committee.
4. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 1.02 p.m.
The Committee resumed in Public Session at 1.04 p.m.
5. ENGAGEMENT ON THE FUTURE OF EUROPE [DR PAT IVORY, DIRECTOR OF EU AND INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS, IBEC] The Committee met with Dr Pat Ivory, Director of EU and International Affairs. Ibec.
Following a presentation by Dr Ivory, a question and answer session ensued with the members of the Committee. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked Dr Ivory for his engagement with the Committee.
6. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 1.41 p.m.
The Committee resumed in Private Session at 1.43 p.m.
7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
8. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
9. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
10. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
11. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
12. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
13. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
14. ADJOURNMENT
The Committee adjourned at 1.49 p.m. until 4th October at 2 p.m.
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman
4 October 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 21ST SEPTEMBER 2017
1. A Special Meeting of the Joint Committee on European Unions Affairs; Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Defence; and the Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement was held, a quorum being present.
The meeting commenced in public session at 10:32 a.m. in the Dáil Chamber in Leinster House.
Deputy Seán Ó Fearghail, An Ceann Comhairle acted as Chairperson for the meeting.
2. ATTENDANCE The following members were present:
Deputy Seán Ó Fearghail, Ceann Comhairle, Deputy Pat the Cope Gallagher, Leas-Ceann Comhairle, Senator Denis O’Donovan, Cathaoirleach and Senator Paul Coghlan, Leas-Cathaoirleach.
Joint Committee on European Affairs Deputies: Colm Brophy, Seán Crowe, Seán Haughey, Bernard Durkan, Michael Healy-Rae, Mattie McGrath and Frank O’Rourke.
Senators: Paul Coghlan, Gerard P. Craughwell and Terry Leyden.
Apologies were received from Senator Neale Richmond.
Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Defence Deputies: Brendan Smith, Sean Barrett, Seán Crowe, Tony McLoughlin, Darragh O’ Brien and Maureen O’Sullivan.
Senators: Ivana Bacik and Mark Daly.
Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement Deputies: Declan Breathnach, Fergus O’Dowd, Tony McLoughlin, Maureen O’Sullivan, Seán Sherlock and Brendan Smith.
Senators: Gerard P. Craughwell, Mark Daly, Frank Feighan and Niall Ó Donnghaile.
Also in attendance: Minister Heather Humphreys TD, Ministers of State Helen McEntee TD and Joe McHugh TD.
Deputies: Gerry Adams, Bobby Aylward, Richard Boyd-Barrett, John Brady, John Brassil, James Browne, Pat Buckley, Mary Butler, Jackie Cahill, Pat Casey, Shane Cassells, Lisa Chambers, Niall Collins, David Cullinane, John Curran, Pearse Doherty, Stephen Donnelly, Timmy Dooley, Dessie Ellis, Martin Ferris, Seamus Healy, Catherine Martin, Martin Kenny, John Lahart, Micheál Martin, Denise Mitchell, Aindrias Moynihan, Michael
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
Moynihan, Imelda Munster, Margaret Murphy O’Mahony, Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin, Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire, Jim O’Callaghan, Maurice Quinlivan, Anne Rabbitte, Brendan Ryan, Eamon Ryan, Eamon Scanlon, Niamh Smyth and Brian Stanley.
Senators: Márie Devine, Alice-Mary Higgins and Michael McDowell.
3. ENGAGEMENT WITH MR GUY VERHOFSTADT MEP, EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT BREXIT COORDINATOR The Committees met in public session with Mr Guy Verhofstadt MEP, European Parliament Brexit Coordinator. The Ceann Comhairle made an opening statement and welcomed Mr Verhofstadt to Leinster House. Mr Verhofstadt made an Opening Statement, which included his thoughts on the negotiations for the UK’s withdrawal from the EU.
Following brief remarks from Deputy Michael Healy-Rae, Chairperson of the Joint Committee on European Union Affairs, Deputy Brendan Smith, Chairperson of the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Defence, and Deputy Declan Breathnach, Vice-Chairperson of the Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement, a questions and answers session with the Members present followed.
Senator Denis O’Donovan, Cathaoirleach made some concluding remarks.
4. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 12:19 pm
______Michael Healy-Rae TD, Chairman, 18 October, 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 4TH OCTOBER 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in public session at 2.03 p.m. in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present:
Deputies: Michael Healy-Rae (in the Chair), Colm Brophy, David Cullinane, Brendan Durkan, Seán Haughey, Mattie McGrath and Frank O’Rourke.
Senators: Paul Coghlan, Terry Leyden and Alice-Mary Higgins
Apologies received from Senators Gerard P. Craughwell and Neale Richmond.
3. ENGAGEMENT ON THE FUTURE OF EUROPE [MR MAURICE PRATT, CHAIRPERSON AND MS NOELLE O’CONNELL, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR EUROPEAN MOVEMENT IRELAND] The Committee met Mr Maurice Pratt, Chairperson and Ms Noelle O’Connell, Executive Director from European Movement Ireland.
Following a presentation by Mr Pratt and Ms O’Connell, a question and answer session ensued with the members of the Committee. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the witnesses for their engagement with the Committee.
4. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 3.02 p.m.
The Committee resumed in Public Session at 3.06 p.m.
5. ENGAGEMENT ON THE FUTURE OF EUROPE [IRISH CREAMERY MILK SUPPLIER ASSOCIATION (ICMSA) MR JOHN COMER, PRESIDENT AND MR JOHN ENRIGHT, GENERAL SECRETARY; AND MACRA NA FEIRME, MR JAMES HEALY, PRESIDENT, MR DENIS DUGGAN, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, AND MR DERRY DILLON, AGRICULTURAL AND RURAL AFFAIRS MANAGER] The Committee met with representatives of the Irish Creamery Milk Supplier Association (ICMSA) Mr John Comer, President and Mr John Enright, General Secretary; and Macra na Feirme, Mr James Healy, President, Mr Denis Duggan, Chief Executive, and Mr Derry Dillon, Agricultural and Rural Affairs Manager.
Following a presentation by Mr Comer and Mr Healy, a question and answer session ensued with the Members of the Committee. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the witnesses for their engagement with the Committee.
6. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 4.05 p.m.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
The Committee resumed in Private Session at 4.07 p.m.
7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
8. Item Discussed in Private Session
9. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
10. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
11. ADJOURNMENT
The Committee adjourned at 4.28 p.m. until 18th October at 2 p.m.
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman
18 October 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 18TH OCTOBER 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in public session at 2.03 p.m. in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present:
Deputies: Michael Healy-Rae (in the Chair), Colm Brophy, Brendan Durkan, Seán Haughey, Mattie McGrath and Frank O’Rourke.
Senators: Paul Coghlan, Gerard P. Craughwell, Terry Leyden and Neale Richmond.
Apologies received from Deputy David Cullinane.
3. ENGAGEMENT ON THE FUTURE OF EUROPE [MR PETER RIGNEY, INDUSTRIAL OFFICER, CONGRESS (IRISH CONGRESS OF TRADE UNIONS)] The Committee met Mr Peter Rigney, Industrial Officer, Congress (Irish Congress of Trade Unions).
Following an opening statement by Mr Rigney, a question and answer session ensued with the Members of the Committee. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the witness for his engagement with the Committee.
4. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 2.47 p.m.
The Committee resumed in Private Session at 2.59 p.m.
5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
8. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
9. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
10. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
11. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 3.13 p.m.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
The Committee resumed in Private Session at 3.17 p.m.
12. ENGAGEMENT ON THE FUTURE OF EUROPE [HIS EXCELLENCY MR STÉPHANE CROUZAT, AMBASSADOR OF FRANCE TO IRELAND] The Committee met with HE Mr Stéphane Crouzat, Ambassador of France to Ireland.
Following a presentation by Ambassador Crouzat, a question and answer session ensued with the Members of the Committee. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the Ambassador for his engagement with the Committee.
13. ADJOURNMENT
The Committee adjourned at 4.17 p.m. until 9 November at 2 p.m.
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman
15 November 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 9TH NOVEMBER 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in public session at 2.03 p.m. in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present: Deputies: Colm Brophy, Seán Haughey and Mattie McGrath. Senators:, Gerard P. Craughwell, Terry Leyden (in the Chair) and Neale Richmond. Apologies received from Deputies Michael Healy-Rae, Frank O’Rourke and Senator Paul Coghlan. Also in attendance: Brian Hayes MEP.
3. BRIEFING ON KEY DEVELOPMENTS ON THE EUROPEAN AGENDA [MS HELEN MCENTEE TD, MINISTER OF STATE FOR EUROPEAN AFFAIRS] The Committee met with Ms Helen McEntee TD, Minister of State for European Affairs.
Following an Opening Statement by Minister McEntee, a question and answer session ensued with the Members of the Committee. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the Minister for her engagement with the Committee.
4. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 3.12 p.m. The Committee resumed in Private Session at 3.14 p.m.
5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
8. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
9. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
10. ADJOURNMENT The Committee adjourned at 3.29 p.m. until 15 November.
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman
15 November 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 15TH NOVEMBER 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in private session at 3.10 p.m. in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present:
Deputies: Colm Brophy, Seán Haughey, Michael Healy-Rae (in the Chair) and Mattie McGrath and Frank O’Rourke.
Senators: Paul Coghlan and Neale Richmond.
Apologies received from Senators Gerard P. Craughwell and Terry Leyden.
3. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
4. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
The Committee resumed in Public Session at 3.23 p.m.
7. ENGAGEMENT ON THE FUTURE OF EUROPE [MR JOE HEALY, PRESIDENT, IRISH FARMERS’ ASSOCIATION (IFA)] The Committee met with Mr Joe Healy, President, Mr Damian McDonald, Director General and Ms Elaine Farrell, Brexit Co-ordinator, Oireachtas & Retail Executive, Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA).
Following an Opening Statement by Mr Healy, a question and answer session ensued with the Members of the Committee. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the Witnesses for their engagement with the Committee.
8. ADJOURNMENT The Committee adjourned at 4.05 p.m. until 29 November.
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman 29 November 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 29TH NOVEMBER 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in public session at 2.03 p.m. in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present:
Deputies: Michael Healy-Rae (in the Chair), David Cullinane, Seán Haughey and Mattie McGrath.
Senators: Gerard P. Craughwell and Terry Leyden.
Apologies received from Deputy Frank O’Rourke and Senator Paul Coghlan.
3. ENGAGEMENT ON THE FUTURE OF EUROPE [DR EOIN O’NEILL AND DR FINBARR BRERETON, LECTURERS IN ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY, UNIVERSITY COLLEGE DUBLIN (UCD) EARTH INSTITUTE; MR MICHAEL EWING, COORDINATOR, THE ENVIRONMENTAL PILLAR] The Committee met Dr Eoin O’Neill and Dr Finbarr Brereton, Lecturers in Environmental Policy, University College Dublin (UCD) Earth Institute; and Mr Michael Ewing, Coordinator, the Environmental Pillar.
Following a presentation by Dr O’Neill and Mr Ewing, a question and answer session ensued with the members of the Committee. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the witnesses for their engagement with the Committee.
4. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 2.47 p.m.
The Committee resumed in Private Session at 2.51 p.m.
5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
8. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION.
9. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
10. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
11. THE COMMITTEE RESUMED IN PUBLIC SESSION AT 3.00 P.M.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
12. ENGAGEMENT ON THE FUTURE OF EUROPE [MR PAUL GINNELL, POLICY OFFICER, EUROPEAN ANTI-POVERTY NETWORK (EAPN) IRELAND; AND DR SEÁN HEALY, CEO, SOCIAL JUSTICE IRELAND] The Committee met with Mr Paul Ginnell, Policy Officer, European Anti- Poverty Network (EAPN) Ireland; and Dr Seán Healy, CEO, Social Justice Ireland.
Following a presentation by Mr Ginnell and Dr Healy, a question and answer session ensued with the Members of the Committee. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the witnesses for their engagement with the Committee.
13. ADJOURNMENT
The Committee adjourned at 3.48 p.m. until 13 December at 2 p.m.
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman
13 December 2017.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS
MINUTES OF MEETING OF 13TH DECEMBER 2017
1. The Joint Committee met in public session at 2.06 p.m. in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000, a quorum being present.
2. ATTENDANCE The following Members were present:
Deputies: Michael Healy-Rae (in the Chair), David Cullinane, Bernard Durkan, Seán Haughey, Mattie McGrath, Frank O’Rourke, Fiona O’Loughlin and Kevin O’Keeffe
Senators: Paul Coghlan, Gerard P. Craughwell, Terry Leyden, Rónán Mullen and John Dolan.
Apologies received from Senator Neale Richmond.
3. ENGAGEMENT ON THE FUTURE OF EUROPE [MS FIONA O’DONOVAN, POLICY AND RESEARCH ASSISTANT, DISABILITY FEDERATION OF IRELAND]
The Committee met with Ms Fiona O’Donovan, Policy and Research Assistant, Disability Federation of Ireland.
Following a presentation Ms O’Donovan, a question and answer session ensued with the members of the Committee. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the witness for her engagement with the Committee.
4. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 2.51 p.m.
The Committee resumed in Private Session at 2.52 p.m.
5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
8. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
9. SUSPENSION The meeting was suspended at 3.00 p.m.
The Committee resumed in Public Session at 3.08 p.m.
10. ENGAGEMENT ON THE FUTURE OF EUROPE WITH A FOCUS ON EDUCATION AND CULTURE [MR TIBOR NAVRACSICS, EUROPEAN COMMISSIONER FOR EDUCATION, CULTURE, YOUTH AND SPORT] The Committee met with Mr Tibor Navracsics, European Commissioner for Education, Culture, Youth and Sport and considered the Future of Europe with a focus on education.
Joint Committee on European Union Affairs
Following a presentation by Mr Navracsics, a question and answer session ensued with the Members of the Committee. On conclusion, the Chairman thanked the Commissioner for his engagement with the Committee.
11. ADJOURNMENT
The Committee adjourned at 4.17 p.m. until 17 January at 2 p.m.
Mr Michael Healy-Rae TD Chairman
17 January 2018.