Mr. Enda Falvey:

Interesting points were made by Deputy Charlie Flanagan but I kept hearing about the need for further information. I agree on that point. For many reasons, the Deputy has difficulties with the ballot paper but we are saying there is a need to exercise caution in examining the ballot paper because of the legal context. The other issue concerns information. There is great flexibility in what can be provided by way of information through the Referendum Commission while leaving the ballot paper alone. That is a point that strikes me.

I understand the point about the double negative. Trawling through the various referendums we have had in the past, people have voted on complex issues before and the issue has not risen. The fifth amendment was a negative proposal to the people. At the time, perhaps people did not question things but there is no suggestion that people were confused then or are confused by detailed questions.