TITHE AN OIREACHTAIS

AN COMHCHOISTE UM GHNÓTHAÍ AN AONTAIS EORPAIGH

TUARASCÁIL BHLIANTÚIL 2013

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HOUSES OF THE OIREACHTAS

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

31ENUA0010

Table of Contents

Chairman’s Foreword ...... 3 1. Content and Format of Report ...... 6 2. Function and Powers ...... 6 3. Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Membership ...... 7 4. Meetings, Attendance and Recording ...... 8 5. Number and Duration of Meetings ...... 8 5.1 Joint Committee 5.2 Select Committee 6. Witnesses attending before the Committee ...... 9 7. Committee Reports Published ...... 9 8. Travel ...... 9 9. Report on Functions and Powers ...... 12

APPENDIX 1 Orders of Reference APPENDIX 2: Membership List of Members (Joint Committee) APPENDIX 3: Meetings of the Joint Committee APPENDIX 4: Minutes of Proceedings of the Joint Committee

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Chairman’s Foreword

On behalf of the Joint Committee on European Union Affairs I am pleased to present the Annual Report on the work of the Joint Committee for the period January to December 2013. The purpose of the report is to set out the work undertaken by the Joint Committee during this period and the work in progress.

Ireland held the Presidency of the European Union from January to June 2013 and played a crucial role in progressing the negotiations on a number of key dossiers, including the Multiannual Financial Framework and the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy. Throughout the period of the Presidency the Committee engaged with the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Minister for State with Special Responsibility for European Affairs in advance of meetings of the General Affairs Council to discuss the progress of Ireland’s Presidency programme. This regular contact also enabled the Joint Committee to carry out effective oversight of the Government’s policy approach and to have an input into, and an exchange of views on, topics arising on the agendas of the General Affairs Council.

The Joint Committee assumed the presidency of COSAC (Conférence des Organes Spécialisés dans les Affaires Communautaires et Européennes des Parlements de l'Union européenne) at the beginning of the year and hosted the Conference of Chairpersons of COSAC in Dublin Castle on 27-28 January 2013. The XLIX COSAC Plenary Meeting which was held in Dublin Castle on 23-25 June attracted almost 300 parliamentarians and officials from EU member states, the European Parliament and candidate states and was widely regarded as a significant success. In its formal contribution to the European institutions, the XLIX COSAC addressed the key issues currently facing the EU, such as Economic Governance, Democratic accountability and legitimacy, youth enemployment and enlargement.

The Joint Committee met 36 times during 2013. During the year the Committee undertook a significant body of work across the spectrum of European Union issues, including –

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• Ireland and the future of the European Union. The Committee held an extensive series of meetings on this issue, which focused on financial, budgetary and economic policy integration in the EU, the necessary steps to bolster democratic accountability and legitimacy, the role for national parliaments in the EU system and implications for Ireland of the United Kingdom's relationship with the EU.

• The social dimension of Economic and Monetary Union. The Committee considered how social indicators could be part of the formal economic surveillance associated with EMU and in December 2013 issued a formal contribution to the European Commission on this issue.

• Youth unemployment in Europe and the European Youth Guarantee. The Committee published a report in July 2013 entitled ―Guaranteeing Our Future - A Report On The Need For A Youth Guarantee‖.

• A range of issues related to the Committee’s work programme, including the priorities of the Lithuanian EU Presidency, the Role of the Court of Auditors and its 2012 Annual Report, the experience of Latvia and Estonia in the EU, the European Movement Accountability Report 2012 and Ireland’s National Reform Programme for 2013 (related to the European Semester).

• European Scrutiny. The Committee published the Tenth Annual Report on the operation of the European Union (Scrutiny) Act 2002 as required under section 5 of the Act. The report examined the EU scrutiny activities of the Oireachtas and its Committees during 2013.

The work of the Joint Committee would not be possible without the continued co- operation of a number of key contributors. I would like to acknowledge the essential contribution of the officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Department of the Taoiseach and other government Departments and thank them for their continued assistance. I would like to acknowledge and thank my colleagues on the Joint Committee and the staff of the secretariat for their continuous hard work and dedication in carrying out the important work of the Committee.

______Dominic Hannigan T.D. Chairman

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1. Content and Format of Report

This report has been prepared pursuant to Standing Order 86 (3), (4), (5) and (6) (Dáil Éireann) and Standing Order 75 (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;  make an annual report to both Houses.

At its meeting on the 13 March 2014, the Joint Committee agreed that all these items should be included in this report covering the period from 1 January 2013 to 31 December 2013.

2. Function and Powers

The Dáil Select Committee was established by Order of Dáil Éireann of 8 June 2011 to consider such matters arising from;

. Ireland’s membership of the European Union, and . 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, and . 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 164, and . other matters referred to it by the Dáil.

The Dáil Select Committee under the same Order was enjoined with a Select Committee of Seanad Éireann, established by Order of Seanad Éireann of 16 June 2011, 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,

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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 , . notifications referred by the Dáil under Standing Order 106(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, . other matters referred to it by the Dáil 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

Deputy Dominic Hannigan was elected as Chairman of the Joint Committee on the 26 January 2012. By Order of Dáil Éireann Deputy Paschal Donohoe was replaced by Deputy Dara Murphy, who was elected as Vice-Chairman of the Joint Committee on the 25 September 2013.

The Chairman of the Joint Committee is also Chairman of the Dáil Select Committee

Membership of the Committee, including all internal changes within the reported period, is listed at Appendix 2.

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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 Committee.

Televised coverage of public meetings of the Committee was broadcast live within the Leinster House complex and was available for subsequent public broadcasting by RTE and TV3. It was also webcast making it available worldwide on the internet. Since the pilot launch of the Oireachtas TV channel in November 2011, the proceedings of committees in public session, typically recorded but occasionally live, are now broadcast on UPC channel 207.

An Official Report (Parliamentary Debates) of the public meetings of the 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 paragraph 7.

5. Number and Duration of Meetings

5.1 Joint Committee The Joint Committee met 36 occasions during the period under report. The number of hours of discussion involved in these meetings was in excess of 46.

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.

5.2 Select Committee The Dáil Select Committee was not required to meet in 2013.

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6. Witnesses attending before the Committee

During the period, the number of speaking witnesses for the Joint Committee was 87.

7. Committee Reports Published

During the period under report, the Joint Committee published the following reports:  Work Programme 2013  EU Scrutiny Work Programme 2013  Annual Report 2012  Guaranteeing our future a Report on the need for a youth guarantee  Annual Report on the Operation of the European Union (Scrutiny) Act 2002  Political Contribution on COM (2013) 690 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament and Council- Strengthening the Social Dimension of the Economic and Monetary Union.

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: European Parliamentary Week on the European Semester for Economic Policy Coordination

Destination: Brussels

Date: 28th – 30th January 2013

Members travelling: Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman) and Bernard Durkan. Senator Terry Leyden Accompanying Official: Conor Gouldsbury (Policy Advisor)

2. Purpose of travel: Study visit to EU Institutions, Luxembourg

Destination: Luxembourg

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Date: 13th – 15th February 2013

Members travelling: Deputies Hannigan (Chairman), Timmy Dooley and John Halligan. Senator Fidelma Healy Eames Accompanying Official: John Hamilton (Clerk)

3. Purpose of travel: Informal Meeting of EU Committee Chairs

Destination: Copenhagen

Date: 10th – 11th March 2013

Members travelling: Deputy Dominic Hannigan (Chairman) Accompanying Official: Conor Gouldsbury (Policy Advisor)

4. Purpose of travel: Meeting with the EU Committee of the German Bundestag

Destination: Berlin

Date: 25th – 26th April 2013

Members travelling: Deputy Dominic Hannigan (Chairman) Accompanying Official: Conor Gouldsbury (Policy Advisor)

5. Purpose of travel: EU Commission Conference on the EMU

Destination: Brussels

Date: 6th – 7th May 2013

Members travelling: Deputy Dominic Hannigan (Chairman) Accompanying Official: Conor Gouldsbury (Policy Advisor)

6. Purpose of travel: Irish Embassy event on the issue of democratic legitimacy and accountability in the EU

Destination: Madrid

Date: 16th – 17th May 2013

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Members travelling: Deputy Paschal Donohoe (Vice-Chairman) Accompanying Official: Barry Kavanagh (Committee Secretariat)

7. Purpose of travel: Euronest Interparliamentary Assembly

Destination: Brussels

Date: 27th – 29th May 2013

Members travelling: Senator Terry Leyden Accompanying Official: John Hamilton (Clerk)

8. Purpose of travel: Meeting of Chairpersons of COSAC

Destination: Vilnius

Date: 6th – 9th July 2013

Members travelling: Deputy Dominic Hannigan (Chairman) Accompanying Official: John Hamilton (Clerk)

9. Purpose of travel: 23rd Economic Forum

Destination: Krynica Zdrój

Date: 3rd – 6th September 2013

Members travelling: Deputy Timmy Dooley Accompanying Official: Conor Gouldsbury (Policy Advisor)

10. Purpose of travel: British-Irish Association Conference

Destination: Cambridge

Date: 6th – 8th September 2013

Members travelling: Deputy Bernard Durkan Accompanying Official: Barry Kavanagh(Committee Secretariat)

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11. Purpose of travel: Friends of Europe 10th Annual Roundtable Event

Destination: Brussels

Date: 1st – 3rd October 2013

Members travelling: Deputy Dominic Hannigan (Chairman) Accompanying Official: John Hamilton(Clerk)

12. Purpose of travel: Article 13 Conference

Destination: Vilnius

Date: 16th – 17th October 2013

Members travelling: Deputy Dominic Hannigan Accompanying Official: Ronan Lenihan(Committee Secretariat)

13. Purpose of travel: L COSAC Plenery Meeting and visit to the Baltic States

Destination: Vilnius, Riga and Tallinn

Date: 26th October– 2nd November 2013

Members travelling: Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Timmy Dooley* and John Halligan**. Senator Catherine Noone *Deputy Timmy Dooley travelled to L COSAC in Vilnius only **Deputy John Halligan travelled to the Baltic States only. Accompanying Official: John Hamilton (Clerk)

9. Report on Functions and Powers

The Joint Committee is currently satisfied with its present procedures and role.

______Dominic Hannigan T.D. Chairman 13 March 2014

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APPENDIX 1: Orders of Reference

Dáil Éireann on 8 June 2011 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, ar Committee on European Union a mbeidh 9 gcomhalta de Dháil Affairs, consisting of nine Éireann, chun breithniú a members of Dáil Éireann, be dhéanamh ar cibé nithe a appointed to consider such 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 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) 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 Roinn (a) Bills the statute law in Gnóthaí Eachtracha agus respect of which is dealt Trádála leis an dlí reachtach with by the Department of ina leith, Foreign Affairs and Trade, (b) cibé tograí a bheidh in aon (b) proposals contained in any tairiscint, lena n-áirítear aon motion, including any tairiscint de réir bhrí Bhuan- motion within the meaning Ordú 164, agus of Standing Order 164, and (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 chun stead for that purpose) shall be na críche sin), ina chomhalta nó an ex officio member of the ina comhalta ex officio den Select Committee for the Roghchoiste chun na nithe atá purpose of consideration of the leagtha amach i mír (2)(a) agus matters outlined at paragraph

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(b) a bhreithniú agus beidh sé (2)(a) and (b) and shall be nó sí i dteideal vótáil in entitled to vote in Select imeachtaí an Roghchoiste. Committee proceedings. (4) Beidh ag an gCoiste na (4) The Select Committee shall have cumhachtaí a mhínítear i the powers defined in Standing mBuan-Ordú 83(1), (2) agus Order 83(1), (2) and (3). (3). (5) Déanfar an Roghchoiste a (5) The Select Committee shall be chomhcheangal le Roghchoiste joined with a Select Committee arna cheapadh ag Seanad appointed by Seanad Éireann, to Éireann chun bheith ina form the Joint Committee on Chomhchoiste um Ghnóthaí an European Union Affairs, which, Aontais Eorpaigh, agus, gan without prejudice to the dochar do ghinearáltacht mhír generality of paragraph (1), shall (1), déanfaidh an Roghchoiste an consider— méid seo a leanas a bhreithniú— (a) doiciméid phleanála (a) the EU Commission’s straitéiseacha Choimisiún AE strategic planning lena n-áirítear Clár Oibre an documents including the 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 agenda gcomhair cruinnithe de for meetings of the General Chomhairle Gnóthaí Affairs Council of Ministers Ginearálta na nAirí agus and the outcome of such toradh cruinnithe den sórt meetings, sin. (d) cibé rialacháin faoi Achtanna (d) such regulations under the na gComhphobal Eorpach, European Communities Acts 1972 go 2009 agus 1972 to 2009 and other 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 European Union as the Eorpach a roghnóidh an Committee may select, Coiste, (e) fógraí arna dtarchur ag an (e) notifications referred by the Dáil faoi Bhuan-Ordú Dáil under Standing Order 106(1)(a), 106(1)(a), (f) fógraí i dtaobh tograí chun (f) notifications of proposals for na Conarthaí a leasú a the amendment of the fuarthas ón gComhairle Treaties received from the

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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 bhun from the European Council Airteagal 49 den Chonradh pursuant to Article 49 of the ar an Aontas Eorpach, agus Treaty on European Union, and (h) cibé nithe eile a (h) such other matters as may tharchuirfidh an Dáil chuige be referred to it by the Dáil 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 Oireachtas Oireachtais ar oibriú Acht an on the operation of the European Aontais Eorpaigh (Grinnscrúdú), Union (Scrutiny) Act 2002. 2002. (7) Beidh ag an gComhchoiste na (7) The Joint Committee shall have cumhachtaí a mhínítear i the powers defined in Standing mBuan-Orduithe 83 (seachas mír Orders 83 (other than paragraph (2A) den chéanna), 106(1)(a) (2A) thereof), 105, 106(1)(a) agus 107. and 107. (8) Beidh ag an gComhchoiste an (8) The Joint Committee shall have chumhacht chun moltaí a the power to make dhéanamh chun an Aire Gnóthaí recommendations to the Minister Eachtracha agus Trádála (nó for Foreign Affairs and Trade (or chun Aire Stáit) i dtaobh nithe a Minister of State) on European bhaineann leis an Aontas Union matters. Eorpach. (9) Féadfaidh na daoine seo a leanas (9) The following may attend freastal ar chruinnithe den meetings of the Joint Committee Chomhchoiste agus páirt a and take part in proceedings ghlacadh in imeachtaí gan ceart without having a right to vote or vótála a bheith acu ná ceart to move motions and tairiscintí a dhéanamh ná amendments: leasuithe a thairiscint: (a) Comhaltaí de Pharlaimint na (a) Members of the European hEorpa arna dtoghadh ó Parliament elected from thoghcheantair in Éirinn, constituencies in Ireland, lena n-áirítear Tuaisceart including Northern Ireland, Éireann, (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

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(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. (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 Affairs Comhphobail agus Eorpacha de Committees of Parliaments of chuid Pharlaimintí an Aontais the European Union (COSAC) Eorpaigh (COSAC) agus and shall report to both Houses tabharfaidh sé tuarascáil ar an of the Oireachtas thereon. gcéanna do dhá Theach an Oireachtais. (11) Beidh Cathaoirleach an (11) The Chairman of the Joint Roghchoiste, ar comhalta de Committee, who shall be a Dháil Éireann a bheidh ann nó member of Dáil Éireann, shall inti, ina Chathaoirleach nó ina also be Chairman of the Select Cathaoirleach ar an Committee.‖ gComhchoiste freisin.

Seanad Éireann on 16 June 2011 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, ar Committee on European Union a mbeidh 5 chomhalta de Affairs, consisting of 5 members Sheanad Éireann, chun breithniú of Seanad Éireann, be appointed a dhéanamh ar cibé nithe a to consider such matters arising éiríonn— 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 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 eile. not referred to any other Committee. (2) Déanfar an Roghchoiste a (2) 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), shall déanfaidh an Comhchoiste an consider— méid seo a leanas a bhreithniú— ~ 16 ~

(a) doiciméid phleanála (a) the EU Commission’s straitéiseacha Choimisiún AE strategic planning documents lena n-áirítear Clár Oibre an including the Commission Choimisiúin, Work Programme, (b) forbairtí beartais tras-earnála (b) cross-sectoral policy ag leibhéal an Aontais developments at European Eorpaigh, Union level, (c) nithe a liostaítear lena (c) matters listed for mbreithniú ar an gclár gnó i consideration on the agenda gcomhair cruinnithe de for meetings of the General Chomhairle Gnóthaí Affairs Council of Ministers Ginearálta na nAirí agus and the outcome of such toradh cruinnithe den sórt meetings, sin.

(d) cibé rialacháin faoi Achtanna such regulations under the na gComhphobal Eorpach, European Communities Acts 1972 go 2009 agus (d) 1972 to 2009 and other 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 102(1)(a), Order 102 (1)(a), (f) fógraí i dtaobh tograí chun (f) notifications of proposals for na Conarthaí a leasú a 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 bhun from the European Council Airteagal 49 den Chonradh pursuant to Article 49 of the ar an Aontas Eorpach, agus Treaty on European Union, and (h) cibé nithe eile a tharchuirfidh (h) such other matters as may an Seanad chuige ó am go be referred to it by the ham. Seanad from time to time. (3) Tabharfaidh an Comhchoiste (3) The Joint Committee shall report tuarascáil do dhá Theach an to both Houses of the Oireachtas Oireachtais ar oibriú Acht an on the operation of the European

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Aontais Eorpaigh (Grinnscrúdú), Union (Scrutiny) Act 2002. 2002. (4) Beidh ag an gComhchoiste na (4) The Joint Committee shall have cumhachtaí a mhínítear i mBuan- the powers defined in Standing Orduithe 71 (seachas mír (2A) Orders 71 (other than paragraph den chéanna), 101, 102(1)(a) (2A) thereof), 101, 102(1)(a) agus 103. and 103. (5) Beidh ag an gComhchoiste an (5) The Joint Committee shall have chumhacht chun moltaí a the power to make dhéanamh chun an Aire Gnóthaí recommendations to the Minister Eachtracha agus Trádála (nó for Foreign Affairs and Trade (or chun Aire Stáit) i dtaobh nithe a Minister of State) on European bhaineann leis an Aontas Union matters. Eorpach. (6) Féadfaidh na daoine seo a leanas (6) The following may attend freastal ar chruinnithe den meetings of the Joint Committee Chomhchoiste agus páirt a and take part in proceedings ghlacadh in imeachtaí gan ceart without having a right to vote or vótála a bheith acu ná ceart to move motions and tairiscintí a dhéanamh ná amendments: leasuithe a thairiscint: (a) Comhaltaí de Pharlaimint na (a) Members of the European hEorpa arna dtoghadh ó Parliament elected from thoghlaigh in Éirinn, lena n- constituencies in Ireland, 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. (7) Déanfaidh an Comhchoiste (7) 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 Affairs Comhphobail agus Eorpacha de Committees of Parliaments of the chuid Pharlaimintí an Aontais European Union (COSAC) and Eorpaigh (COSAC) agus shall report to both Houses of the tabharfaidh sé tuarascáil ar an Oireachtas thereon. gcéanna do dhá Theach an Oireachtais. (8) Beidh Cathaoirleach an (8) The Chairman of the Joint Chomhchoiste ina chomhalta nó Committee shall be a member of ina comhalta de Dháil Éireann. Dáil Éireann.

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APPENDIX 2: MEMBERSHIP

List of Members (Joint Committee)

Chairman: Dominic Hannigan (Lab) 1

Deputies: Eric Byrne TD (LAB) 4 Seán Crowe TD (SF) 3 Timmy Dooley TD (FF) Bernard J. Durkan TD (FG) John Halligan TD (IND) 2 Seán Kyne TD (FG) Dara Murphy TD (FG) (Vice-Chairman) 5 Joe O’Reilly TD (FG)

Senators: Colm Burke (FG) Terry Leyden (FF) Aideen Hayden (LAB)9 Catherine Noone (FG) 6 Kathryn Reilly (SF)

1 Deputy Dominic Hannigan replaced Deputy Joe Costello by Order of the Dáil on 26th January 2012 2 Deputy John Halligan replaced Deputy Mick Wallace by Order of the Dáil on 27th June 2012 3 Deputy Seán Crowe replaced Deputy Padraig MacLochlainn by order of the Dáil on 25 September 2012 4 Deputy Eric Byrne replaced Deputy Colm Keaveney by Order of the Dáil on 17th January 2013 5 Deputy Dara Murphy (elected Vice Chair 25/09/13) replaced Deputy Paschal Donohoe by Order of the Dáil on 18th July 2013 6 Senator Catherine Noone replaced Senator Fidelma Healy Eames by Order of the Seanad on 19th July 2013 7 Senator John Kelly replaced Senator James Heffernan by Order of the Seanad on 19th July 2013 8 Senator Marie Moloney replaced Senator John Kelly by Order of the Seanad on 26th September 2013 9 Senator Aideen Hayden replaced Senator Marie Moloney by Order of the Seanad on 5 November 2013

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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 J58 Europe's youth  Mr Paddy Cosgrave, Founder and 17/1/2013 unemployment crisis Organiser, Dublin Web Summit

J59 1. Private 24/1/2013

2. Pre-General Affairs  Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Council meeting Affairs and Trade, Mr. Eamon Gilmore T.D.

J60 Private 5/2/2013 J61 Ireland and the future TASC 21/2/2013 of the EU  Dr. Nat O’Connor, Director (i) Financial,  Mr. Tom McDonnell, Policy Analyst budgetary and economic policy  Mr. Seamus Coffey, Lecturer in integration in the EU; Economics at UCC. and (ii) Democratic accountability and legitimacy, and political union

J62 Ireland and the future  Mr. Dan O’Brien, Economics Editor 28/2/2013 of the EU of the Irish Times, (i) Financial,  Ms. Ann Cahill, Europe budgetary and Correspondent of the Irish economic policy Examiner integration in the EU;  Mr. Sean Whelan, Economics and (ii) Democratic Correspondent of RTÉ. accountability and legitimacy, and political union J63 Discussion on the  Mr. Eamon Gilmore T.D. Tánaiste 5/3/2013 forthcoming March and Minister for Foreign Affairs General Affairs and Trade Council Meeting

~ 20 ~

Meeting Topic Organisations, Groups and No. and Individuals who attended Date J64 Ireland and the future  Mr. Gay Mitchell MEP, 7/3/2013 of the EU  Ms. Emer Costello MEP, (i) Financial,  Mr. Paul Murphy MEP budgetary and economic policy integration in the EU; and (ii) Democratic accountability and legitimacy, and political union

J65 Ireland and the future UCD 14/3/2013 of the EU  Dr. Gavin Barrett, Senior Lecturer, (i) Financial, School of Law, budgetary and  Prof. Brigid Laffan, European economic policy Politics integration in the EU; and (ii) Democratic accountability and legitimacy, and political union

J66 Discussion on the  Mr. James Higgins, Policy Officer 21/3/2013 Youth Guarantee from the European Youth Forum,  Mr. James Doorley, Assistant Director of the National Youth Council,  Dr. Dermot Stokes, former National Coordinator of Youthreach

~ 21 ~

Meeting Topic Organisations, Groups and No. and Individuals who attended Date J67 Discussion on the Officials from various Government 16/4/2013 National Reform Departments Programme for  Mr. John Callinan, Assistant Ireland 2013 Update Secretary, Department of the Taoiseach  John McCarthy, Department of Finance,  Mr. Terry Corcoran, Department of Social Protection,  Mr. Jim Walsh, Department of Social Protection  Ms. Pauline Mulligan, Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation  Stjohn O’Connor, Department of Communication, Energy and Natural Resources,  Mr. Owen Ryan, Department of Environment, Community and Local Government,  Mr. Brian O’Meara, Department of Education and Skills, J68 Completing the National University of Ireland, 23/4/2013 Economic and Galway Monetary Union  Professor John McHale, (EMU) Established Professor and Head of Economics,  Doctor Alan Ahearne, Cairnes School of Business J69 Completing the Central Bank of Ireland 30/4/2013 Economic and  Professor Patrick Honohan, Monetary Union Governor, (EMU)  Mr Patrick Brady, Director of Policy and Risk,  Mr Colm Larkin, Deputy Head of EU and International Policy. J70 Democratic  Ms. Lucinda Creighton TD, 7/5/2013 Legitimacy and Minister of State with special Accountability in the responsibility for European Affairs EU

~ 22 ~

Meeting Topic Organisations, Groups and No. and Individuals who attended Date J71 1. The United  Mr. David Lidington MP, UK 9/5/2013 Kingdom and the Minister for Europe EU

2. Ireland’s EU  Mr. Eamon Gilmore T.D. Tánaiste Presidency and the and Minister for Foreign Affairs forthcoming and Trade General Affairs Council Meetings J72 Amnesty International  Mr. Colm O’Gorman, Executive 16/5/2013 on its Director, recommendations to  Ms. Iverna McGowan, Policy and the Irish EU Strategy Coordinator Presidency J73 Accountability Report European Movement Ireland 21/5/2013 2012  Ms. Billie Sparks  Mr. Neale Richmond J74 Exchange of views Members of the European Committee 23/5/2013 of the Bavarian Parliament  Prof. Ursula Mannle  Mr. Thomas Dechant  Ms. Renate Dodell  Dr. Linus Forster  Ms. Anne Franke,  Mr. Joachim Hanisch  Mr. Konrad Kobler  Mr. Alexander Radwan J75 Exchange of views Delegation from the French National 30/5/2013 Assembly  Deputy Danielle Auroi  Deputy Michel Piron

J76 Democratic  Mr. Francis Jacobs, Head of Office 18/6/2013 Legitimacy and at the European Parliament Accountability in the Information Office in Ireland EU J77 Democratic  Mr. Roland Freudenstein, Deputy 20/6/2013 Legitimacy and Director & Head of Research at Accountability in the the Centre for European Studies EU J78 Democratic  Ms. Sonia Piedrafita, Research 2/7/2013 Legitimacy and Fellow, Centre for European Policy Accountability in the Studies EU

~ 23 ~

Meeting Topic Organisations, Groups and No. and Individuals who attended Date J79 1. Discussion on  His Excellency Vidmantas Purlys, 11/7/2013 Lithuania's Ambassador of Lithuania to Presidency Ireland Priorities

2. Completing the  Professor John Fitzgerald, Economic and Research Professor at the Monetary Union Economic and Social Research (EMU) Institute (ESRI) J80 Democratic  Mr. David Kitching, Policy Advisor, 16/7/2013 Legitimacy and Foundation for European Accountability in the Progressive Studies EU (Resumed) J81 Discussion on the  Mr. Paschal Donohoe TD, Minister 19/9/2013 forthcoming General of State with special responsibility Affairs Council for European Affairs Meeting J82 1. Election of Vice 25/9/2013 Chairman

2. Exchange of views Turkish Parliamentarians with Turkish  Mr. Ruhi Acikgoz, Chair of the Parliamentarians Turkey-Ireland Interparliamentary Friendship Group, Justice and Development Party,  Ms. Safak Pavey, Member of EU Harmonization Committee, Republican People’s Party,  Mr. Ahmet Kaymaz, Legislation Expert  Ms. Dilek Demirkol, Interpreter

J83 The Oireachtas and  Dr Gavin Barrett, Senior Lecturer, 10/10/2013 the European Union: School of Law, UCD the Evolving Role of a National Parliament in European Affairs J84 Discussion on the  Mr. Paschal Donohoe TD, Minister 17/10/2013 forthcoming General of State with special responsibility Affairs Council for European Affairs Meeting J85 Discussion on the  Mr. Mait Martinson, Ambassador 24/10/2013 experience of Estonia of Estonia to Ireland, and Latvia in the EU  Mr. Gints Apals, Ambassador of Latvia to Ireland

~ 24 ~

Meeting Topic Organisations, Groups and No. and Individuals who attended Date J86 Discussion on the  Ms. Barbara Nolan, Head of the 12/11/2013 European Commission European Commission Work Programme Representation in Ireland 2014. J87 Discussion on the  Mr. Paschal Donohoe TD, Minister 14/11/2013 forthcoming General of State with special responsibility Affairs Council for European Affairs Meeting J88 Discussion on the  Mr. Koos Richelle, Director 20/11/2013 social dimension of General of DG Employment, Social the Economic and Affairs and Inclusion, European Monetary Union Commission (EMU). J89 Discussion on the  Dr. Peter Rigney, Industrial 21/11/2013 social dimension of Officer, ICTU, the Economic and  Mr. John Farrell, Development Monetary Union Officer, Irish National Organisation (EMU) (resumed). of the Unemployed,  Dr. Séan Healy, Director, Social Justice Ireland

J90 Discussion on the  Prof. Tim Callan, Associate 26/11/2013 social dimension of Research Professor, ESRI the Economic and  Mr. Philip O’Connor, Chairperson, Monetary Union European Anti-Poverty Network (EMU) (resumed). Ireland  Mr. Tony Donohoe, Head of Education, Innovation and Social Policy, IBEC

J91 Discussion on the  Mr. James Doorley, Deputy 3/12/2013 social dimension of Director, National Youth Council the Economic and Ireland; Monetary Union  Ms. Orla O'Connor, Director, (EMU) (resumed). National Women's Council Ireland

J92 1. Discussion on the  Mr. Paschal Donohoe TD, Minister 10/12/2013 forthcoming of State with special responsibility General Affairs for European Affairs Council Meeting

2. Discussion on the  Mr. Paschal Donohoe TD, Minister Foreign Policy of State with special responsibility Review for European Affairs

~ 25 ~

Meeting Topic Organisations, Groups and No. and Individuals who attended Date J93 The work of the  Mr. Kevin Cardiff, Member of the 17/12/2013 European Court of European Court of Auditors Auditors and its Annual Reports 2012

~ 26 ~

APPENDIX 4: Minutes of Proceedings of the Joint Committee

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 17 JANUARY 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.06 p.m. in Committee Room 2, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Sean Crowe, Timmy Dooley, Bernard Durkan, and Sean Kyne.

Senators Colm Burke and Terry Leyden and Senator Fidelma Healy-Eames.

Apologies were received from Deputy Paschal Donohoe,

3. EUROPE'S YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT CRISIS [MR PADDY COSGRAVE, FOUNDER AND ORGANISER, DUBLIN WEB SUMMIT ]

The Committee met with Mr.Paddy Cosgrave, Organiser of the Dublin Web Summit, for a discussion on youth unemployment and practical steps that might be taken to address the problem. Following an opening presentation by Mr. Cosgrave there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked Mr. Cosgrave for attending and wished him well in his work.

4. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session 2.55 p.m.

5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

7. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 3.03 p.m.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 24 January 2013 ~ 27 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 24 JANUARY 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 10.34a.m. in Committee Room 3, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Timmy Dooley, Bernard J. Durkan, John Halligan and Sean Kyne.

Senator Kathryn Reilly.

Apologies were received from Deputy Paschal Donohoe and Senators Fidelma Healy Eames, Terry Leyden and Colm Burke

Deputies Peter Mathews, Liam Twomey and Kieran O’Donnell also attended.

3. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 10.34am.

4. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

6. PUBLIC SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into public session 12.14 p.m.

7. DISCUSSION ON THE FORTHCOMING GENERAL AFFAIRS COUNCIL MEETING [TÁNAISTE AND MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE EAMON GILMORE TD].

The Committee met with the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Eamon Gilmore T.D.to discuss the forthcoming meeting of the General Affairs Council.

Following the Tánaiste’s presentation there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked the Tánaiste for attending and wished him well in the negotiations

8. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 13.10 p.m.

~ 28 ~

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 5 February 2013

~ 29 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 5 FEBRUARY 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 14.10 p.m. in private session in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Sean Crowe, Paschal Donohoe, Timmy Dooley, Bernard J. Durkan, and Joe O’Reilly.

Senator Colm Burke.

Apologies were received from Senator 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

7. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 15.18 p.m.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 21 February 2013

~ 30 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 21 FEBRUARY 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 14.07 p.m. in Committee Room 3, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman) Eric Byrne, Paschal Donohoe, Timmy Dooley, Bernard J. Durkan, Seán Kyne and Joe O’Reilly.

Senators James Heffernan, Terry Leyden and Kathryn Reilly

Apologies were received from Deputy Seán Crowe.

3. IRELAND AND THE FUTURE OF THE EU (I) FINANCIAL, BUDGETARY AND ECONOMIC POLICY INTEGRATION IN THE EU; AND (II) DEMOCRATIC ACCOUNTABILITY AND LEGITIMACY, AND POLITICAL UNION [DR. NAT O’CONNOR, TASC, MR. TOM MCDONNELL, TASC AND, MR. SEAMUS COFFEY, UCC]

The Committee met with Dr. Nat O’Connor, Director of TASC, Mr. Tom McDonnell, Policy Analyst at TASC and Mr. Seamus Coffey, lecturer in Economics at UCC, to discuss (i) financial budgetary and economic policy integration in the EU; and (ii) democratic accountability and legitimacy, and political union.

Each speaker made a presentation, following which there was a question and answer session.

4. MEETING SUSPENDED

The meeting was suspended at 14.33 p.m. until 14.52 p.m.

5. IRELAND AND THE FUTURE OF THE EU (I) FINANCIAL, BUDGETARY AND ECONOMIC POLICY INTEGRATION IN THE EU; AND (II) DEMOCRATIC ACCOUNTABILITY AND LEGITIMACY, AND POLITICAL UNION [DR. NAT O’CONNOR, TASC, MR. TOM MCDONNELL, TASC AND, MR. SEAMUS COFFEY, UCC]

On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked the speakers for attending and for the interesting discussion which ensued.

6. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session 3.35 p.m.

~ 31 ~

7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

8. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

9. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 15.41 p.m. until 14.00 p.m. on Thursday 28 February 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 28 February 2013

~ 32 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 28 FEBRUARY 2013

The Joint Committee met at 14.08 p.m. in Committee Room 2, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

1. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman) Eric Byrne, Timmy Dooley, Bernard J. Durkan, and Seán Kyne

Senators Colm Burke, James Heffernan and Terry Leyden

MEP Phil Prendergast

Apologies were received from Deputies Seán Crowe, Paschal Donohoe and Joe O’Reilly, and Senator Fidelma Healy Eames.

2. IRELAND AND THE FUTURE OF THE EU (I) FINANCIAL, BUDGETARY AND ECONOMIC POLICY INTEGRATION IN THE EU; AND (II) DEMOCRATIC ACCOUNTABILITY AND LEGITIMACY, AND POLITICAL UNION [MR. DAN O’BRIEN, IRISH TIMES, MS. ANN CAHILL, IRISH EXAMINER AND, MR. SEAN WHELAN, RTÉ]

The Committee met with Mr. Dan O’Brien, Economics Editor of the Irish Times, Ms. Ann Cahill, Europe Correspondent of the Irish Eaminer and Mr. Sean Whelan, Economics Correspondent of RTÉ, to discuss (i) financial budgetary and economic policy integration in the EU; and (ii) democratic accountability and legitimacy, and political union.

Each speaker made a presentation, following which there was a question and answer session.

3. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session 15.31 p.m.

4. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

6. ADJOURNMENT

~ 33 ~

The Committee adjourned at 15.36 p.m. until 15.30 p.m. on Tuesday 5 March 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 5 March 2013

~ 34 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 5 MARCH 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 15.32p.m. in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Sean Crowe, Paschal Donohoe, Timmy Dooley, Bernard J. Durkan, Sean Kyne and Joe O’Reilly

Senators Fidelma Healy Eames, Terry Leyden.

Apologies were received from Senator Colm Burke.

3. DISCUSSION ON THE FORTHCOMING GENERAL AFFAIRS COUNCIL MEETING [TÁNAISTE AND MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE EAMON GILMORE TD].

The Committee met with the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Eamon Gilmore T.D.to discuss the forthcoming meeting of the General Affairs Council.

Following the Tánaiste’s presentation there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked the Tánaiste for attending and wished him well in the negotiations

4. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 16.36 p.m.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 7 March 2013

~ 35 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 7 MARCH 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 14.05 p.m. in Committee Room 2, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman) Eric Byrne, Paschal Donohoe, Timmy Dooley, Bernard J. Durkan, Seán Kyne and Joe O’Reilly

Senators Colm Burke, Terry Leyden and Kathryn Reilly

MEP Phil Prendergast

Apologies were received from Deputies Seán Crowe

3. IRELAND AND THE FUTURE OF THE EU (I) FINANCIAL, BUDGETARY AND ECONOMIC POLICY INTEGRATION IN THE EU; AND (II) DEMOCRATIC ACCOUNTABILITY AND LEGITIMACY, AND POLITICAL UNION [GAY MITCHELL MEP, EMER COSTELLO MEP & PAUL MURPHY MEP]

The Committee met with Gay Mitchell MEP, Emer Costello MEP and Paul Murphy MEP to discuss (i) financial budgetary and economic policy integration in the EU and (ii) democratic accountability and legitimacy, and political union.

Each speaker made a presentation, following which there was a question and answer session.

4. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 15.51 p.m. until 2pm on Thursday 14 March 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 14 March 2013

~ 36 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 14 MARCH 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 14.07 p.m. in Committee Room 2, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman) Eric Byrne, Paschal Donohoe, Timmy Dooley, Bernard J. Durkan, Seán Kyne and Joe O’Reilly.

Senators Colm Burke and James Heffernan

Apologies were received from Deputies Seán Crowe, John Halligan and Senator Terry Leyden

3. IRELAND AND THE FUTURE OF THE EU (I) FINANCIAL, BUDGETARY AND ECONOMIC POLICY INTEGRATION IN THE EU; AND (II) DEMOCRATIC ACCOUNTABILITY AND LEGITIMACY, AND POLITICAL UNION [DR. GAVIN BARRETT, UCD & PROF BRIGID LAFFAN, UCD]

The Committee met with UCD academics Prof Brigid Laffan and Dr Gavin Barrett to discuss Ireland’s future involvement in the EU and in particular (i) financial budgetary and economic policy integration in the EU; and (ii) democratic accountability and legitimacy, and political union.

Each speaker made a presentation, following which there was a question and answer session.

4. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session 15.11 p.m.

5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

8. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 15.36 p.m. until 2.15 p.m. on Thursday 21 March 2013.

~ 37 ~

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 21 March 2013

~ 38 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 21 MARCH 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.19 p.m. in Committee Room 2, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman) Eric Byrne, Timmy Dooley, Bernard J. Durkan and Joe O’Reilly.

Senators Terry Leyden and Kathryn Reilly.

Apologies were received from Deputy Seán Crowe.

3. DISCUSSION ON THE YOUTH GUARANTEE [JAMES HIGGINS, EUROPEAN YOUTH FORUM; JAMES DOORLEY, NATIONAL YOUTH COUNCIL & DR. DERMOT STOKES, YOUTHREACH]

The Committee met with James Higgins, a Policy Officer from the European Youth Forum; James Doorley, Assistant Director of the National Youth Council & Dr. Dermot Stokes, former National Coordinator of Youthreach, to discuss the Youth Guarantee.

Each speaker made a presentation, following which there was a question and answer session.

4. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 3.46 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Tuesday 16 April 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 16 April 2013

~ 39 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 16 APRIL 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.06 p.m. in Committee Room 3, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman) Eric Byrne, Timmy Dooley, Bernard J. Durkan and Seán Kyne

Senators Colm Burke, Fidelma Healy Eames and Terry Leyden

Apologies were received from Deputies Sean Crowe, Paschal Donohoe and Joe O’Reilly

3. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 2.06 p.m.

4. DISCUSSION ON THE NATIONAL REFORM PROGRAMME FOR IRELAND 2013 UPDATE [OFFICIALS FROM VARIOUS GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS]

The Committee met with officials from various Government departments to discuss the update to the National Reform Programme for Ireland 2013.

After a presentation from one of the officials there was a question and answer session. The Chairman then thanked the officials for their hard work.

5. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 2.53 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Thursday 23 April 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 23 April 2013

~ 40 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 23 APRIL 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.09 p.m. in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman) Eric Byrne, Paschal Donohoe, Bernard J. Durkan and Seán Kyne.

Senators Colm Burke, Fidelma Healy Eames and Kathryn Reilly.

Apologies were received from Deputy Joe O’Reilly.

3. DISCUSSION ON COMPLETING THE ECONOMIC AND MONETARY UNION [PROFESSOR JOHN MCHALE, NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF IRELAND, GALWAY & DOCTOR ALAN AHEARNE, NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF IRELAND, GALWAY]

The Committee met with John McHale, Established Professor and head of Economics at NUIG and Dr. Alan Ahearne of the Cairnes School of Business at NUIG.

Each speaker made a presentation, following which there was a question and answer session.

4. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 3.30 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Tuesday 30 April 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 30 April 2013

~ 41 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 30 APRIL 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 14.07 p.m. in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman) Eric Byrne, Paschal Donohoe, Timmy Dooley, Seán Kyne and Joe O’Reilly

Senators James Heffernan, Terry Leyden and Kathryn Reilly

MEP Phil Prendergast was also present.

3. DISCUSSION ON COMPLETING THE ECONOMIC AND MONETARY UNION [PROFESSOR PATRICK HONOHAN, PATRICK BRADY, & COLM LARKIN, CENTRAL BANK OF IRELAND]

The Committee met with Patrick Honohan, Governor of the Central Bank; Patrick Brady, Director of Policy and Risk; and Colm Larkin, Deputy Head of EU and International Policy.

Professor Honohan made a presentation, following which there was a question and answer session.

4. MEETING SUSPENDED

The meeting was suspended at 3.26 p.m. until 3.28 p.m.

5. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session 3.28 p.m.

6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

8. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 3.39 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Tuesday 7 May 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 7 May 2013

~ 42 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 7 MAY 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 14.06 p.m. in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Timmy Dooley (Acting-Chairman), Eric Byrne, Kevin Humphries (Substitute for Dominic Hannigan), Seán Kyne, Dara Murphy (Substitute for Paschal Donohoe) and Dan Neville (Substitute for Bernard Durkan)

Senators Colm Burke, Terry Leyden and Kathryn Reilly

Apologies were received from Deputies Dominic Hannigan, Paschal Donohoe, Bernard Durkan, Seán Crowe and Joe O’Reilly, and Senator James Heffernan.

3. DISCUSSION ON DEMOCRATIC LEGITIMACY AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE EU [MS. LUCINDA CREIGHTON TD, MINISTER OF STATE WITH SPECIAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR EUROPEAN AFFAIRS]

The Committee met with Minister of State Lucinda Creighton to discuss democratic legitimacy and accountability in the EU.

Following the Minister of State’s presentation there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Acting-Chairman thanked the Minister of State for attending.

4. ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Upcoming Committee Meetings The Chairman highlighted upcoming meetings of the Committee.

5. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 2.53 p.m. until 11.15 a.m. on Thursday 9 May 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 9 May 2013

~ 43 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 9 MAY 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 11.18 a.m. in Committee Room 4, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Paschal Donohoe, Timmy Dooley, Bernard Durkan, Seán Kyne, Seán Crowe and Joe O’Reilly

Senators Fidelma Healy Eames, Terry Leyden and Kathryn Reilly

3. DISCUSSION ON THE UNITED KINGDOM AND THE EU [MR. DAVID LIDINGTON M.P., UK MINISTER FOR EUROPE]

The Committee met with the United Kingdom’s Minister of Europe Mr. David Lidington M.P. to discuss the United Kingdom and the EU.

Following the Minister of State’s presentation there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked the Minister for attending and wished him well.

4. MEETING SUSPENDED

The meeting was suspended at 12.18 p.m. until 2.18 p.m.

5. DISCUSSION ON IRELAND’S EU PRESIDENCY AND THE FORTHCOMING GENERAL AFFAIRS COUNCIL MEETING [TÁNAISTE AND MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE EAMONN GILMORE TD].

The Committee met with the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Eamon Gilmore T.D.to discuss the Presidency so far and the forthcoming General Affairs Council.

Following the Tánaiste’s presentation there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked the Tánaiste for attending and wished him well with the rest of the Presidency and the GAC negotiations in Brussels.

6. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 3.22 p.m.

~ 44 ~

7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

8. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

9. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 3.34 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Thursday 16 May 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 16 May 2013

~ 45 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 16 MAY 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.10 p.m. in Committee Room 2, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Paschal Donohoe, Timmy Dooley, Bernard Durkan, Michael McCarthy and Joe O’Reilly

Senators Terry Leyden and Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (substitute for Kathryn Reilly)

Apologies were received from Deputies Paschal Donohoe, Seán Kyne and Seán Crowe, and Senators Colm Burke and Kathryn Reilly

3. DISCUSSION WITH AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL ON ITS RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE IRISH EU PRESIDENCY [MR. COLM O’GORMAN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, & IVERNA MCGOWAN, POLICY & STRATEGY COORDINATOR ]

The Committee met with Colm O’Gorman and Iverna McGowan of Amnesty International Ireland to discuss its recommendations to the Irish EU Presidency.

Following presentations there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked Amnesty for their work and wished them success in the future.

4. MEETING SUSPENDED

The meeting was suspended at 3.19 p.m. until 3.21 p.m.

5. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 3.21 p.m.

6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

~ 46 ~

8. ADJOURNMENT

THE COMMITTEE ADJOURNED AT 3.23 P.M. UNTIL 2.00 P.M. ON TUESDAY 21 MAY 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 21 May 2013

~ 47 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 21 MAY 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.11 p.m. in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. Members Present

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Paschal Donohoe, Bernard Durkan and Seán Kyne

Senator Terry Leyden

Apologies were received from Joe O’Reilly

3. DISCUSSION WITH EUROPEAN MOVEMENT IRELAND ON THEIR SUBMISSION TO THE COMMITTEE AND THEIR ACCOUNTABILITY REPORT FOR 2012 [MS. BILLIE SPARKS & MR. NEALE RICHMOND, EUROPEAN MOVEMENT IRELAND]

The Committee met with Billie Sparks and Neale Richmond of European Movement Ireland to discuss their submission to the Committee and the Accountability Report for 2012.

Following presentations there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked the European Movement for their work and wished them success in the future.

4. Adjournment

The Committee adjourned at 3.10 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Thursday 23 May 2013.

______Mr. Paschal Donohoe, T.D. Vice -Chairman 23 May 2013

~ 48 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 23 MAY 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.14 p.m. in Committee Room 2, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Paschal Donohoe (Vice-Chairman), Eric Byrne, Timmy Dooley, Andre Doyle (substitute for Seán Kyne) Bernard Durkan and Joe O’Reilly

Senators Colm Burke, Fidelma Healy Eames and Terry Leyden

Apologies were received from Dominic Hannigan

3. EXCHANGE OF VIEWS WITH MEMBERS OF THE EUROPEAN COMMITTEE OF THE BAVARIAN PARLIAMENT [PROF. URSULA MÄNNLE, MR. THOMAS DECHANT, MS. RENATE DODELL, DR. LINUS FORSTER, MS. ANNE FRANKE, MR. JOACHIM HANISCH, MR. KONRAD KOBLER AND MR. ALEXANDER RADWAN ]

The Committee met with members of the European Committee of the Bavarian Parliament for an exchange of views.

Following presentations there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Vice-Chairman thanked the witnesses and wished them well.

4. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 3.44 p.m. until 11.30 a.m. on Thursday 30 May 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 30 May 2013

~ 49 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 30 MAY 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 11.35 a.m. in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Paschal Donohoe, Timmy Dooley and Bernard Durkan

Senators Terry Leyden and Kathryn Reilly

Apologies were received from Deputies Seán Kyne, Sean Crowe and Joe O’Reilly

3. EXCHANGE OF VIEWS WITH A DELEGATION FROM THE FRENCH NATIONAL ASSEMBLY [DEPUTY DANIELLE AUROI AND DEPUTY MICHEL PIRON]

The Committee met with members of the French National Assembly

Following presentations there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked the witnesses and wished them well.

4. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 1.04 p.m. until 2.30 p.m. on Tuesday 18 June 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 18 June 2013

~ 50 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 18 JUNE 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.36 p.m. in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Paschal Donohoe, Timmy Dooley, Bernard Durkan, Seán Kyne and Joe O’Reilly

Senators Colm Burke, Fidelma Healy Eames and Kathryn Reilly

Apologies were received from Deputy Sean Crowe and Senator Terry Leyden

3. DEMOCRATIC LEGITIMACY AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE EU [MR. FRANCIS JACOBS, HEAD OF OFFICE AT THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT INFORMATION OFFICE IN IRELAND]

The Committee met with Mr. Francis Jacobs, head of the European Parliament office in Ireland, to discuss democratic legitimacy and accountability in the EU.

Following Mr. Jacobs’ presentation there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, Chairman thanked the witness for attending.

4. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 3.40 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

~ 51 ~

9. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

10. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 4.02 p.m. until 11.00 a.m. on Thursday 20 June 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 20 June 2013

~ 52 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 20 JUNE 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 11.11 a.m. in Committee Room 3, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Paschal Donohoe, Timmy Dooley, Bernard Durkan and Seán Kyne

Senators Colm Burke and Fidelma Healy Eames

Apologies were received from Deputy Sean Crowe and Senator Kathryn Reilly

3. DEMOCRATIC LEGITIMACY AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE EU [MR. ROLAND FREUDENSTEIN, DEPUTY DIRECTOR & HEAD OF RESEARCH AT THE CENTRE FOR EUROPEAN STUDIES]

The Committee met with Mr. Roland Freudenstein, deputy director and head of research at the Centre for European Studies, to discuss democratic legitimacy and accountability in the EU.

Following Mr. Freudenstein’s presentation there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, Chairman thanked the witness for attending.

4. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 12.38 p.m.

5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

7. ADJOURNMENT

THE COMMITTEE ADJOURNED AT 12.41 P.M. UNTIL 2.00 P.M. ON TUESDAY 2 JULY 2013.

~ 53 ~

______MR. DOMINIC HANNIGAN, T.D. CHAIRMAN 2 JULY 2013

~ 54 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 2 JULY 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.06 p.m. in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Paschal Donohoe (Vice-Chairman), Eric Byrne, Timmy Dooley, Bernard Durkan, John Halligan and Joe O’Reilly

Senators Colm Burke, Fidelma Healy Eames and Kathryn Reilly

Apologies were received from Deputy Sean Crowe, Dominic Hannigan and Seán Kyne

3. DEMOCRATIC LEGITIMACY AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE EU [DR. SONIA PIEDRAFITA, RESEARCH FELLOW, CENTRE FOR EUROPEAN POLICY STUDIES]

The Committee met with Dr. Sonia Piedrafita, research fellow at the Centre for European Policy Studies, to discuss democratic legitimacy and accountability in the EU.

Following Dr. Piedrafita’s presentation there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, Chairman thanked the witness for attending.

4. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 2.47 p.m.

5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

8. ADJOURNMENT

~ 55 ~

The Committee adjourned at 2.49 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Thursday 11 July 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 11 July 2013

~ 56 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 11 JULY 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.46 p.m. in Committee Room 3, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Paschal Donohoe, Eric Byrne, Timmy Dooley, Bernard Durkan, Seán Kyne and Sean Crowe

Senators Colm Burke, Fidelma Healy Eames and Kathryn Reilly

Apologies were received from Deputy Joe O’Reilly and Senator Terry Leyden

3. DISCUSSION ON LITHUANIA’S PRESIDENCY PRIORITIES [H.E. MR. VIDMANTAS PURLYS, AMBASSADOR OF LITHUANIA TO IRELAND]

The Committee met with the Ambassador of Lithuania to Ireland, H.E. Mr. Vidmantas Purlys, to discuss the priorities of Lithuania’s Presidency of the European Council.

Following the Ambassador’s presentation there was a question and answer session. On conclusion the Chairman thanked the Ambassador for attending and wished him and Lithuania good luck for their Presidency.

4. MEETING SUSPENDED

The meeting was suspended at 3.46 p.m. until 3.48 p.m.

5. COMPLETING THE ECONOMIC AND MONETARY UNION [PROFESSOR JOHN FITZGERALD, THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE (ESRI)]

The Committee met with John FitzGerald, research Professor at the ESRI, to discuss completing the Economic and Monetary Union.

Following Professor FitzGerald’s presentation there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, Chairman thanked the witness for attending.

6. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 4.24 p.m.

~ 57 ~

7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

8. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

9. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 4.25 p.m. until 3.00 p.m. on Tuesday 16 July 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 16 July 2013

~ 58 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 16 JULY 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 3.05 p.m. in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Timmy Dooley, Bernard Durkan, Seán Kyne and Joe O’Reilly

Senators Terry Leyden and Kathryn Reilly

Apologies were received from Deputy Sean Crowe and Senator Colm Burke

3. DEMOCRATIC LEGITIMACY AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE EU (RESUMED) [MR. DAVID KITCHING, POLICY ADVISOR, FOUNDATION FOR EUROPEAN PROGRESSIVE STUDIES]

The Committee met with Mr. David Kitching, Policy Advisor at FEPS, to discuss completing democratic legitimacy and accountability in the EU.

Following Mr. Kitching’s presentation there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, Chairman thanked the witness for attending.

4. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 4.13 p.m.

5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

8. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 4.19 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Thursday 19 September 2013.

~ 59 ~

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 19 September 2013

~ 60 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 19 SEPTEMBER 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.05 p.m. in Committee Room 3, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Sean Crowe Timmy Dooley, Bernard Durkan, Seán Kyne and Dara Murphy

Senators Terry Leyden and Catherine Noone

Apologies were received from Deputy John Halligan

3. DISCUSSION ON THE FORTHCOMING GENERAL AFFAIRS COUNCIL [MR. PASCHAL DONOHOE TD, MINISTER OF STATE WITH SPECIAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR EUROPEAN AFFAIRS]

The Committee met with Minister of State Paschal Donohoe TD, to discuss the forthcoming General Affairs Council and his priorities in his new role. The Chairman began by congratulating the new Minister on his appointment.

Following Minister Donohoe’s presentation there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, Chairman thanked the witness for attending and wished him luck in his new role.

4. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 3.32 p.m.

5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

8. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 3.36 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Wednesday 25 September 2013.

~ 61 ~

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 10 October 2013

~ 62 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 25 SEPTEMBER 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.00 p.m. in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Timmy Dooley, Bernard Durkan, Seán Kyne, Dara Murphy and Joe O’Reilly.

Senators Colm Burke, Terry Leyden and Catherine Noone

Apologies were received from Deputy Sean Crowe and Senator Kathryn Reilly.

3. ELECTION OF VICE CHAIRMAN. The Chairman invited nominations for the position of Vice-Chairman. Deputy Bernard Durkan moved ―That Deputy Dara Murphy be the Vice Chairman of the Committee‖.

The question was put and agreed to unanimously.

4. EXCHANGE OF VIEWS WITH TURKISH PARLIAMENTARIANS.

The Chairman welcomed to the meeting Mr. Ruhi Açıkgöz, Chair of the Turkey-Ireland Interparliamentary Friendship Group, Justice and Development Party, Ms. Safak Pavey, Member of EU Harmonization Committee, Republican People's Party, Mr. Ahmet Kaymaz, Legislation Expert and Ms. Dilek Demirkol Interpreter. Mr. Ruhi Açıkgöz and Ms. Safak Pavey were invited by the Chairman to address the meeting.

Following opening remarks by the delegation, there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked the delegation for attending and for the very interesting exchange of views.

5. MINUTES AND CORRESPONDENCE

Minutes and Correspondence deferred until the next meeting.

~ 63 ~

6. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 2.48 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Thursday 10 October 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 10 October 2013

~ 64 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 10 OCTOBER 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.05 p.m. in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Timmy Dooley, Bernard Durkan and Dara Murphy.

Senators Colm Burke, Terry Leyden, Catherine Noone and Kathryn Reilly.

Apologies were received from Deputies Sean Crowe, Joe O’Reilly and Senator Marie Moloney.

3. DISCUSSION WITH DR GAVIN BARRETT, SENIOR LECTURER, SCHOOL OF LAW, UCD.

The Chairman welcomed to the meeting Dr Gavin Barrett and invited him to make a presentation on his publication ―The Oireachtas and the European Union: the Evolving Role of a National Parliament in European Affairs. Following the presentation there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked Dr. Barrett for attending and wished him well in his work. It was agreed to send a transcript of the proceedings to the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade and invite him to attend a meeting of the committee to respond to the issues raised in the discussion. The Committee also agreed to include in its work programme for 2014 a study visit to Finland and/or Sweden to inform itself on the models of EU scrutiny in those countries.

4. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 3.16 p.m.

5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

~ 65 ~

8. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 3.30 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Thursday 17October 2013.

______Mr. Dara Murphy, T.D. Vice-Chairman 17 October 2013

~ 66 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 17 OCTOBER 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.06 p.m. in Committee Room 3, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dara Murphy (Vice-Chairman), Eric Byrne, Bernard Durkan, Seán Kyne and Joe O’Reilly

Senators Colm Burke, Terry Leyden and Catherine Noone

Apologies were received from Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Sean Crowe and John Halligan.

3. DISCUSSION ON THE FORTHCOMING GENERAL AFFAIRS COUNCIL MEETING [MR. PASCHAL DONOHOE TD, MINISTER OF STATE WITH RESPONSIBILITY FOR EUROPEAN AFFAIRS]

The Committee met with Minister of State Paschal Donohoe to discuss the forthcoming meeting of the General Affairs Council.

Following the Minister of State’s presentation there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Vice-Chairman thanked the Minister of State for attending and wished him well in the negotiations.

4. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 3.21 p.m.

5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

7. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 3.24 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Thursday 24 October 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 24 October 2013

~ 67 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 24 OCTOBER 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.08 p.m. in Committee Room 3, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Tom Barry (substitute for Seán Kyne) Timmy Dooley, Bernard Durkan, John Halligan, Seán Kyne, Dara Murphy and Joe O’Reilly

Senators Colm Burke, Catherine Noone and Pat O’Neill

Apologies were received from Deputy Sean Crowe and Senator Terry Leyden.

3. DISCUSSION ON THE EXPERIENCE OF ESTONIA AND LATVIA IN THE EU [MR. MAIT MARTINSON, AMBASSADOR OF ESTONIA TO IRELAND; AND MR. GINT APALS, AMBASSADOR OF LATVIA TO IRELAND]

The Committee met with the Ambassadors of Estonia and Latvia to discuss their countries experiences of life in the EU.

Following the witnesses’ presentations there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked the Ambassadors for attending and wished them well in the future.

4. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 3.23 p.m.

5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

7. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 3.25 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Tuesday 12 November 2013.

~ 68 ~

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 12 November 2013

~ 69 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 12 NOVEMBER 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.07 p.m. in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Bernard Durkan and Dara Murphy

Senators Colm Burke, Aideen Hayden, Terry Leyden and Catherine Noone

Apologies were received from Deputies Sean Crowe, Timmy Dooley and Joe O’Reilly.

3. DISCUSSION ON THE COMMISSION WORK PROGRAMME FOR 2014 [MS. BARBARA NOLAN, HEAD OF THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION REPRESENTATION IN IRELAND]

The Committee met with Barbara Nolan, head of the European Commission representation in Ireland, to discuss the Commission’s Work Programme for 2014.

Following the presentation there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked Ms. Nolan for attending and wished her well in the future.

4. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 3.13 p.m.

5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

7. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 3.18 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Thursday 14 November 2013.

~ 70 ~

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 14 November 2013

~ 71 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 14 NOVEMBER 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.07 p.m. in Committee Room 3, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Bernard Durkan, Séan Kyne and Joe O’Reilly

Senator Kathryn Reilly

Apologies were received from Deputies Sean Crowe, Timmy Dooley, and Dara Murphy, and Senators Terry Leyden and Catherine Noone.

3. DISCUSSION ON THE FORTHCOMING GENERAL AFFAIRS COUNCIL MEETING [MR. PASCHAL DONOHOE TD, MINISTER OF STATE WITH SPECIAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR EUROPE]

The Committee met with Minister of State Paschal Donohoe, to discuss the General Affairs Council meeting scheduled for 19 November.

Following the presentation there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked the Minister for his participation and wished him well in the negotiations

4. MINUTES

The minutes of 12 November were agreed.

5. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 3.23 p.m. until 12.00 p.m. on Wednesday 20 November 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan, T.D. Chairman 20 November 2013

~ 72 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 20 NOVEMBER 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 12.08 p.m. in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Timmy Dooley, Bernard Durkan, Séan Kyne and Dara Murphy

Senator Colm Burke, Terry Leyden and Kathryn Reilly

Apologies were received from Deputies Eric Byrne, Sean Crowe and Joe O’Reilly and Senator Aideen Hayden.

3. DISCUSSION ON THE SOCIAL DIMENSION OF THE ECONOMIC AND MONETARY UNION (EMU) [MR. KOOS RICHELLE, DIRECTOR GENERAL OF DG EMPLOYMENT, SOCIAL AFFAIRS AND INCLUSION, EUROPEAN COMMISSION]

The Committee met with Mr. Koos Richelle, to discuss the social dimension of the EMU and the Commission’s communication on that subject.

Following the presentation there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked Mr. Richelle for his participation and wished him well in the future

4. MINUTES

The minutes of 14 November were agreed.

5. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 1.13 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Thursday 21 November 2013.

______Mr. Dara Murphy, T.D. Vice-Chairman 21 November 2013

~ 73 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 21 NOVEMBER 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.11 p.m. in Committee Room 3, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dara Murphy (Vice-Chairman), Timmy Dooley, Bernard Durkan and Séan Kyne

Senator Colm Burke, Aideen Hayden and Catherine Noone

Apologies were received from Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Sean Crowe and Joe O’Reilly and Senator Kathryn Reilly.

3. DISCUSSION ON THE SOCIAL DIMENSION OF THE ECONOMIC AND MONETARY UNION (EMU) (RESUMED) [DR. PETER RIGNEY, INDUSTRIAL OFFICER, ICTU; JOHN FARRELL, DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, IRISH NATIONAL ORGANISATION OF THE UNEMPLOYED; AND DR. SÉAN HEALY, DIRECTOR, SOCIAL JUSTICE IRELAND]

The Committee met with Dr. Peter Rigney, ICTU; John Farrell, INOU; and Dr. Séan Healy, SJI to discuss the social dimension of the EMU.

Following the presentations there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked the witnesses for their participation and wished them well in the future

4. MINUTES

The minutes of 20 November were agreed.

5. CORRESPONDENCE

I. Lord Wallace, UK Government Whip meeting summary note Correspondence noted.

II. Statutory Instruments no. 423 of 2013 European Communities (Official controls on the import of food of non-animal origin)(Amendment)(No. 4) Regulations 2013 Correspondence noted.

~ 74 ~

III. Republique Francaise Comptes rendus des travaux de la commission des affaires europeenes de Senat 26 Juillet au 27 Octobere 2013 Correspondence noted.

IV. Letter from European Court of Auditors re 2012 Annual report Correspondence noted.

V. Letter received on behalf of Tánaiste and Minister of Foreign Affairs acknowledging receipt of letter dated 28 October 2013 Correspondence noted.

VI. Received from the COSAC Secretariat (i)Minutes of the Presidential Troika of COSAC, Vilnius 27 October 2013 (ii) Minutes of the meeting of the L COSAC Correspondence noted.

VII. Received from Derek Dignam – Seimas resolution on Ukraine Correspondence noted.

VIII. Received from Derek Dignam – Note of the COSAC Informal session Correspondence noted.

IX. Letter from the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport re reports that relate or impact on the Department Correspondence noted.

X. Received from Derek Dignam – This week in the European Institutions 18-22 November Correspondence noted.

XI. House of Commons European Scrutiny Committee – 20th Report of Session 2013-14 Correspondence noted.

XII. House of Commons European Scrutiny Committee – 21st Report of Session 2013-14 Correspondence noted.

XIII. Letter and Hard copy of Court of Auditors 2012 Annual report Correspondence noted.

XIV. Received from Derek Dignam – Annual Growth Survey 2014 Correspondence noted.

XV. Statutory Instruments no. 434 of 2013 European Union (Protection of animals used for Scientific Purposes)(Amendment)(No. 4) Regulations 2013 Correspondence noted.

6. ADJOURNMENT

~ 75 ~

The Committee adjourned at 3.37 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Tuesday 26 November 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan T.D. Chairman 26 November 2013

~ 76 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 26 NOVEMBER 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.05 p.m. in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Dara Murphy (Vice-Chairman), Eric Byrne, Timmy Dooley and Séan Kyne

Senators Colm Byrne, Terry Leyden, Catherine Noone and Kathryn Reilly

Apologies were received from Deputy Sean Crowe.

3. DISCUSSION ON THE SOCIAL DIMENSION OF THE ECONOMIC AND MONETARY UNION (EMU) (RESUMED) [PROF. TIM CALLAN, ASSOCIATE RESEARCH PROFESSOR, ESRI; PHILIP O’CONNOR, CHAIRPERSON, EUROPEAN ANTI- POVERTY NETWORK IRELAND; AND TONY DONOHOE, HEAD OF EDUCATION, INNOVATION AND SOCIAL POLICY, IBEC]

The Committee met with Prof. Tim Callan, ESRI; Philip O’Connor, EAPN; and Tony Donohoe, IBEC to discuss the social dimension of the EMU.

Following the presentations there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked the witnesses for their participation and wished them well in the future

4. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 3.13 p.m.

5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

7. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 3.16 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Tuesday 3 December 2013.

~ 77 ~

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan T.D. Chairman 3 December 2013

~ 78 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 3 DECEMBER 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.07 p.m. in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Dara Murphy (Vice-Chairman), Eric Byrne, Timmy Dooley, Bernard Durkan, John Halligan and Séan Kyne

Senators Colm Byrne and Kathryn Reilly

Apologies were received from Deputy Sean Crowe.

3. DISCUSSION ON THE SOCIAL DIMENSION OF THE ECONOMIC AND MONETARY UNION (EMU) (RESUMED) [JAMES DOORLEY, DEPUTY DIRECTOR, NATIONAL YOUTH COUNCIL IRELAND; AND ORLA O’CONNOR, DIRECTOR, NATIONAL WOMEN’S COUNCIL IRELAND]

The Committee met with James Doorley, National Youth Council Ireland; and Orla O’Connor, National Women’s Council Ireland to discuss the social dimension of the EMU.

Following the presentations there was a question and answer session. On conclusion of the debate, the Chairman thanked the witnesses for their participation and wished them well in the future

4. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 3.06 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

~ 79 ~

9. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 3.10 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Tuesday 10 December 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan T.D. Chairman 10 December 2013

~ 80 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 10 DECEMBER 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.07 p.m. in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Timmy Dooley, Bernard Durkan and Séan Kyne

Senators Colm Burke, Aideen Hayden and Terry Leyden

Apologies were received from Deputies Dara Murphy (Vice-Chairman) and Sean Crowe and from Senator Kathryn Reilly.

3. DISCUSSION (I) ON THE FORTHCOMING GENERAL AFFAIRS COUNCIL OF MINISTERS MEETING AND (II) THE FOREIGN POLICY REVIEW [PASCHAL DONOHOE TD, MINISTER FOR EUROPEAN AFFAIRS]

The Committee met with the Minister for European Affairs, Paschal Donohoe TD, to discuss the forthcoming General Affairs Council meeting. Following a presentation by the Minister there was a question and answer session. The Chairman thanked the Minister and wished him well in the negotiations.

The Committee then discussed the upcoming Foreign Policy Review with the Minister. After a presentation there was a question and answer session.

4. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 3.24 p.m.

5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

~ 81 ~

8. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 3.26 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Tuesday 17 December 2013.

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan T.D. Chairman 17 December 2013

~ 82 ~

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 17 DECEMBER 2013

1. The Joint Committee met at 2.11 p.m. in Committee Room 1, LH 2000, a quorum being present.

2. MEMBERS PRESENT

Deputies Dominic Hannigan (Chairman), Eric Byrne, Seán Crowe, Timmy Dooley, Bernard Durkan, Séan Kyne and Joe O’Reilly

Senators Aideen Hayden, Terry Leyden and Kathryn Reilly

Apologies were received from Deputy Dara Murphy (Vice-Chairman) Senator Colm Burke.

3. DISCUSSION ON THE WORK OF THE EUROPEAN COURT OF AUDITORS AND ITS ANNUAL REPORT 2012 [KEVIN CARDIFF, MEMBER OF THE EUROPEAN COURT OF AUDITORS]

The Committee met with Kevin Cardiff of the European Court of Auditors to discuss the work of the Court and its Annual Report 2012.

Following a presentation by Mr. Cardiff there was a question and answer session. The Chairman thanked the witness and wished him well in the future.

4. PRIVATE SESSION

The Committee agreed to go into private session at 3.36 p.m.

5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION

7. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned at 3.38 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Thursday 16 January 2014.

~ 83 ~

______Mr. Dominic Hannigan T.D. Chairman 16 January 2014

~ 84 ~