Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

It did not achieve it so let us get real here. The situation is simple. As matters stand, we are not in a position to ratify the treaty, but the ratification process is proceeding in all the other countries. They wish to discuss the situation with me. I can only discuss it with them on the basis of analysing the outcome on the conclusion of the vote and considering if and how we can proceed from here. That is what emerged from last week's meeting. If the Deputy looks, he will see those are the agreed conclusions and that is the position.

If someone wants to project beyond that, it is a free world, a free country and a free media. They can say and do what they like and print what they wish. They can have an opinion, and need not take umbrage if someone disagrees with them. That is the way it is and there is no more to it.

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