Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I welcome Sir William Cash, who is a breath of fresh air for us here. This is about the sixth meeting we have had dealing with the issue of a British exit and he is the sole witness we have heard speak on behalf of the proposition. This is in contrast to our huge team of academics, economists, specialists in international law and people who understand the function and role of the city of London and international bankers. We will send Sir William a copy of the final report. To a man and a woman, and not from an Irish nationalistic perspective, it has been argued here that an exit would be disastrous for both Ireland and England. Sir William is aware that we in Ireland are very supportive of the European relationship. He is also aware that we have a divided island, and his traditional allies are the Northern Unionists who sit in his Parliament.

It would be interesting to know what position they might take post an election.

Unfortunately, our Sinn Féin colleagues have left. They, being eurosceptics, would probably like to side with Sir William's concept, but they will be voiceless because they do not take their seats in Parliament. We are full of contradictions.

I compliment Sir William for wearing the tie. He pays us an honour, as our Presidency was a couple of years ago.