Martin Ferris (Kerry North, Sinn Fein)

The referendum campaign will be very different from previous referenda. Contrary to what the Government claims, no matter how the people vote, Ireland's place in the European Union is secure. The Minister of State knows this. We fought the Nice treaty campaign in a dignified and informative way, especially the second campaign. We won in the first referendum, minor negotiations ensued and the people voted in favour of the treaty on the second occasion. I accept that they made that decision but believe the demonisation of those who stand against the Lisbon treaty is a disgrace to those charged with the responsibility to run the country. The Government is trying to demonise those who stand for the wishes and rights of people. I am sorry that the Labour Party which is supposed to represent the working class is prepared to promote a treaty that will do damage to the ordinary working people of this island.

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