Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Every other parliament in Europe is debating last Thursday's decision of the Irish people. I find it absolutely inexplicable and astonishing that an issue of this importance should not be deemed suitable for the suspension of Standing Orders and a debate be held on the important issue of the Lisbon campaign and its future. I propose that the Government sets aside Standing Orders and makes available Government time for a debate for the rest of the day, be it statements or whatever other process, on the Lisbon treaty, its future and where we are headed in our participation in the European Union, with the opportunity for Members on all sides of the House to give their views. The Taoiseach should set aside the business of the House to debate until 10 p.m. the most important and critical decision taken by the Irish people in a very long time.

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