Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

I disagree with Deputy Creighton's last point. I agree there must be a vigorous campaign and more positive media coverage. Last week's full debate, facilitated by Deputy Creighton's colleague, Deputy Durkan, got virtually no media coverage. That reality faces us. One broadcaster I approached told me it was too complex. I do not agree it is too complex. The treaty is a complex issue, but it is not difficult to sort out the issues: a more democratic Europe that can make its decisions in a clearer and better approach, that will better protect its citizens' rights and that will be more efficient in dealing with the external world and in which the smaller member states are protected. I thought this would interest our media, but sadly it has not happened. With the glorious exception of The Irish Times, to which I give full credit, minimal cover has been given to this.

There is an information gap and we all have a responsibility to fill it. That is why I made the point that I want every Deputy, for and against the treaty, properly briefed so that there is no mythology on this treaty and we do not hear nonsense about tanks on the streets and our neutrality, taxation or sovereignty being undermined. This is about making Europe work better for every citizen, Irish and European. I agree we have a task but we are up to it and will focus on it.

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