Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

It is a question. I have asked the Taoiseach whether he is aware of this development in the European Parliament. I am sure that is crystal clear as a question to anyone in the House. Will the Taoiseach clarify his reaction to the European Parliament's decision to indicate that it will not respect the Irish people's decision on the Lisbon treaty? Is there any explanation of why one of the Irish MEPs, the Labour Party representative, Proinsias De Rossa actually voted against the proposition in the European Parliament?

In line with the vote of the Taoiseach's party's MEPs in the European Parliament which was very welcome, does the Taoiseach share the anger and vexation of many voices at the European Parliament's decision? Will he confirm in the House that it is his intention and that of the Government to fully respect whatever outcome is arrived at, on whatever date he sets for the referendum on the Lisbon treaty? Once again, I ask whether he will confirm that this respect will include an acceptance and implementation of the first judgment of the people and that he will not seek a further referendum if the answer does not favour his position.

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