asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the Government's policy in relation to elections to the European Parliament; and whether the Government support the case for strengthened powers for the European Parliament.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - European Parliament Elections.
13.
The Government fully support the agreement to hold direct elections to the European Parliament in accordance with Article 138 of the Treaty of Rome. We look forward to the emergence of the directly elected Parliament next June as a milestone in the development of the Community.
The Government also support moves towards economic and monetary union based on a balanced economic development throughout the European Community, as a step towards greater integration within the Community. The basis of democratic control is laid down in the treaties through the interaction of the institutions and the Government will support whatever steps may be appropriate in future to maintain that control.
Does the Minister think it wise from a national point of view that he and other members of the Government should take the risk of misrepresenting the view of the Government and the country towards direct European elections by publicly associating with a politician who makes no secret of his dismissive attitude towards the Parliament and the elections? This politician has said that in the approaching meeting of the European Council the heads of State should draw up the agenda of the future European Parliament and that it should meet not more than twice a year. He has said that the European Council should be the creators of European policy. Does the Minister think this is wise?
What the Deputy is seeking in his question is at odds with what the grouping to which the Deputy's party belong have agreed in their platform for Europe. It does not make any reference to stregthening the powers of the European Parliament. It states "Any further transfer of powers from national parliaments to the European Assembly can take place only with the clear and direct assent of the national governments and parliaments." The Deputy should refer to his own platform.
I am seeking to elicit Government policy. In view of the Minister's reply, does he think it wise that he should associate with a politician who has made no secret of the low opinion he holds of democratic elections and the European Parliament? He holds the contrary view, that the European Council should draw up the agenda of the parliamentary meetings. Does the Minister not agree there is a danger of misrepresentation of his view?
We will be represented at the European Council. There is no proposal before the Council to act on the basis of the suggestions referred to by the Deputy.
The Mayor of Paris, Jacques Chirac, has indicated publicly——
It has not been discussed at the European Council.
Does the Minister agree with his suggestions regarding the agenda and with his opinions regarding the European Parliament?
I would not agree with some of the ideas that some of the Deputy's partners have with regard to the CAP. I am talking of the Socialist members of the Parliament.