Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

Allowing only one hour with 20 minutes of questions on such an important issue is insufficient. Our party spokesperson will have only five minutes' participation on this critical issue, which is moreover being considered during the Irish Presidency of the European Union. It is a matter of grave concern that we have not had a proper debate in the House on the proposed constitutional treaty for the European Union, because it affects our sovereignty and democracy in this State and in the European Union. The Government refused to tell us its position on the negotiations on the constitutional treaty. It refuses to tell us if it has agreed the defence clauses, which we contend violate Irish neutrality. For these reasons we cannot agree to such a short inadequate opportunity for statements, and a limited question and answer session to follow. Members need a substantive opportunity to address this major proposition.

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