Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I thank all Members who have contributed to the debate thus far and have some initial questions for the Minister. Although I appreciate he stated we were in uncharted waters, I believe he also stated we would arrive in a safe harbour. While I admire his confidence, he should explain how he proposes to arrive in a safe harbour if we are in uncharted waters.

I seek confirmation of a few matters. Can the European Union sign the treaty and exclude Ireland? Can the 26 countries come together, sign the treaty and tell Ireland it is not part of the deal as it has not ratified it? Can they go ahead and ratify it? Alternatively, are they be obliged to agree a new treaty, be it a second Lisbon treaty or whatever it may called? Can the Minister provide an outline of a timetable in this regard? While a period of reflection has been mooted, for how long can we reflect before the Government will be obliged to decide on how to further this issue? Alternatively, does the result of the referendum constitute a decision by the people to stop? Does it mean they want to keep the European Union as it is, do not wish to integrate any further, do not want a change and wish to operate under the rules as laid down under the Nice treaty? If that is the case, does the Minister have an idea as to how the other 26 countries would take to this?

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