Michael Mullins (Fine Gael)

I welcome both the holding of the referendum and the responsible attitude being displayed by the Fianna Fáil grouping this morning in supporting the referendum. I wish to support Senator Conway's call to the Leader to facilitate some additional sittings of the Seanad to debate this treaty in an open and responsible fashion. This would also fulfil the wishes of Senator Colm Burke, who called for the media to report responsibly in this regard. It would provide the latter with an opportunity to be present for those dates. All Members complain the media pays very little attention to what goes on in the Seanad. However, were Members to have a mature and open debate on all aspects of the treaty, the media may well see fit to concentrate on reporting the proceedings of this House in a much fuller fashion.

This probably will be the most important treaty on which people must decide because of its impact. The common good and the future of our country are very much at stake. This would be a further step along the road towards rebuilding Ireland's economy and restoring our international reputation, as well as contributing to strengthening the euro.