Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)

I hate to interrupt such an interesting combat. Is it the Government's or taxpayers' money that is paying for all this? The Government has the job of dispensing taxpayers' money.

My question may not be totally relevant because I was not present for the full debate and I therefore ask the Minister to forgive me. Where stands the Government regarding a possible referendum on new rules to govern the European Union? Having spent time in the voluntary sector, I realise enlargement cannot proceed indefinitely without the introduction of more rigorous structures. The Minister stated that most countries have already agreed to the structures that were put in place. How many countries require a referendum? Are there any plans for one in Ireland in the foreseeable future?

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