I thought when I took up this position that my allocated speaking time would be longer.

There has been much discussion on the United Kingdom's plan for its future in the European Union, a referendum on which will be held next year or the year after. We have an important role to play in that discussion with our nearest and dearest neighbour. A debate in this House with the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Deputy Charles Flanagan, or the Minister of State, Deputy Dara Murphy - I would prefer if the Minister or even the Taoiseach came to the House for the debate - on the pivotal role we can play in terms of encouraging our fellow neighbours in the United Kingdom to remain within the European project would be worthy and useful before the end of term of this Seanad. I understand the Taoiseach is meeting the Prime Minister, Mr. David Cameron in 10 Downing Street, in the not too distant future to discuss this matter. We need to assist at European level the United Kingdom in terms of its requirements for a new direction for the European Union.

Is the Senator seeking a debate on the matter?

We need to engage at senior level in that debate. This House equally has a role to play in that discourse and deliberation. In that regard, I suggest a debate in this House would be timely and prudent.