Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The issue arising with regard to our engagement with the European Union member state partners relates to the fact we voted against and rejected the treaty. Ratifications are continuing in other member states. They are substantially ratified in 24 of those states and it is likely that 26 will have it completed by the end of the year.

Obviously, member states have queries for us as to what issues arose in regard to the defeat of the referendum, and where they might be of help and give further direction, clarification and an indication of their intentions in regard to the implementation of the Lisbon treaty. This would assist in dealing with the 42% who claim, based on the research we undertook, they were confused with regard to the whole matter.

We must try to bring clarity to these issues and work with colleagues in a constructive way and in good faith, and then report back to the Dáil as to the outcome of those discussions. We are seeking to ascertain whether there are ways and means in which we can enhance the provisions, the interpretation and the understanding of the treaty in a way that would be helpful to the Irish people, and to see if they wish to reconsider this matter. At the end of the day, that is a matter for Government or the Oireachtas to decide in the future. What we cannot do is sit there and suggest we will not engage and that we are not prepared to work in solidarity with others to see in what way we can address these issues. We will then come back to the House.

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