Lucinda Creighton (Dublin South East, Fine Gael)

I asked the Minister this question at the European affairs committee last week and there is little more clarity now on the date of the referendum. At the committee meeting the Minister said he had a date in mind, which he would put to the Taoiseach. Has the Minister had that conversation with the Taoiseach and how has he responded? I am concerned because a TNS MRBI poll found that 25% of people were in favour of the reform treaty, 13% were opposed and 62% had no opinion. This side of the House is in favour of the treaty. Its institutional reforms and democratisation of the EU are right for Europe. However if people are to decide in a positive manner, the onus lies on the Government, which has negotiated and agreed to this and will sign on 13 December, to ensure there is an adequate information campaign. The Minister said he has written to every Member of the Oireachtas and that is true and welcome. However, I imagine most Members have decided how they will vote on this and I hope and anticipate most Members are well informed on it, although I do not assume anything. It is imperative that members of the public be informed. I am not sure what the Minister has in mind. He mentioned a leaflet next month. I do not know how much detail will be in that, but we need an active debate. There has been more media coverage of the "no" side than the other side and the Government has not shown adequate commitment to this.

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