Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

On behalf of the Sinn Féin Deputies and, I expect, on behalf of the other Independent Deputies who supported the "No" view in this debate, I support the proposition to have a substantive address on the Lisbon treaty, either by statements or whatever mechanism, today or tomorrow. It is an important step, however, it must be contextualised to reflect respect and acceptance of the democratically expressed will of the Irish electorate. It cannot be a rehash of the debate or seek to lecture those who took a considered and specific stand on what the Lisbon treaty contained. We would happily participate in such a debate. I join Deputies Gilmore and Kenny in urging the Taoiseach and the Government parties to accommodate such a debate. I hope when he attends his first Council of Ministers meeting as Taoiseach that the most important information he will heed is the decision of the Irish electorate.

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