Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

Yes, although the Lisbon treaty would have postponed this development until after 2014.

Deputy Timmins then asked what was Ireland's position in respect of negotiations on this issue. To be frank, the Government is trying to draw breath. Obviously, like in all negotiations, it will try to represent Ireland's best interests and achieve the best we can from that scenario, but it is unclear.

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