Rónán Mullen (Independent)

We must certainly comply with legalities but in terms of advocating a "Yes" or "No" vote, the people know what the issues are. This is about strengthening, and tying us into, commitments that we have already made. We will face stringent rules in the future around deficits and debt. The decision that the Irish people must make is whether this is in our best interests, whether, by being seen to tie ourselves into this agreement - one must remember our say so is not required for this treaty to go ahead - we will act to reassure markets in the future that we are a safe bet when it comes to lending, and whether it will strengthen our voice when we seek concessions on issues such as the promissory notes. Senator Walsh is correct. It is Ireland's best interests that must drive this debate, not persons on either side trying to gain political leverage for themselves on other issues, certainly not a protest of the Government nor, indeed, a tribal vote in support of the Government. Ireland's best interests must be the test as persons decide how they will vote on this issue.