Public to run 'Europe Day' debates

Members of the public will today direct a series of special debates on European policy taking place in the Dáil to mark Europe Day.

A wide range of EU policy areas like migration, agriculture, employment and the EU Constitution are likely to be discussed.

Europe Day, which was celebrated across Ireland yesterday, marks the anniversary of proposals by EU forefather Robert Schuman to establish a European Economic Community.

Questions emailed by the public will be debated by TDs and Senators at the Oireachtas Committee on European Affairs.

It is believed to be the first-ever Oireachtas initiative to allow the public to direct a debate on an issue.

Government Chief Whip, Tom Kitt, said: “It is a ground-breaking parliamentary initiative which gives a voice to the people on European issues that affect us all.”

EU Agriculture Commissioner, Mariann Fisher Boel, will also address the Oireachtas and will take questions submitted by the public.