I support the request by Deputy Collins, which has been made at the Business Committee as well for a number of weeks. It is extraordinary that there is no time to debate Mercosur. It is a massive issue and decision time is coming up. We do not know the Government's position. Perhaps the Taoiseach could clarify that, or at least pass a message to the Chief Whip to do so.

Sentiment score: 0.07

The Taoiseach did not answer the earlier questions about the Fisheries Council outcome. It is a disastrous outcome. The Taoiseach must know about the big five, the massive Dutch corporations that have bought up fish quotas across the European Union. They have 240 vessels. Approximately one in six of the fish caught under all the countries of Europe are under these corporations. They clearly have more power than our country. How can it be that for our State and our waters, which have suffered so much, the Hague preferences - in place since 1976 and the final veneer of fairness in the Common Fisheries Policy for Ireland - can just be stripped away? I am asking the Taoiseach if he will take legal action. Will he call for an investigation into these major corporations based in the Netherlands that are plundering and taking fish all across the European Union under the Common Fisheries Policy? Deputy Michael Collins called it corrupt. I think it is a corrupt policy at this stage and the Taoiseach needs to speak out and defend Irish interests on this matter.

Sentiment score: -0.03

Backed by these corporations.

Sentiment score: 0.03