Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy will be surprised to hear I do not agree with him at all. The idea that one is precluded from putting a question to the Irish people, or that it is in some way a negation of democracy, is at variance with the facts. If the people's voice is to be respected — it has been and will be unless there is a change — we will simply address the issues that cause concern. People are still saying they are in favour of the European Union and want us to be part of the Union. The Union wants to proceed along the lines it set out in the Lisbon treaty and it is likely that all other 26 member states will eventually get to that point. That leaves the other partners asking what is our position in that context. They have indicated to us a preparedness to accommodate issues and concerns which we identify. This is precisely what we have done.

We have gone back to our partners and in the true spirit of the European Union, they have shown a preparedness to seek to accommodate Ireland and allow work to proceed to see what way that can be put in effect. We have until June to complete this work but if we can complete it sooner, all the better. We will continue to work with the other parties but I cannot anticipate that agreement until the work is done, positions are put and people signify their consent and agreement to the positions sought. Until that is done, I will not give consideration to anything as that is the first job we must do. When that is done, we can see where to go from there.

The conclusions in December confirm the timelines, which are indicative. It is a matter of deciding what is in our best interest. We are dealing with an economic and financial crisis currently, along with the international recession, and where we stand on the Lisbon treaty is an issue as far as the international investment community goes. It is my strong view that it is not helpful to Ireland's case at the moment. The quicker we are in a position to clear up and deal with those issues as effectively as we can, the better. It must be done on the basis of the conditions as set out in the December Council meeting. That is our task, which will take account of the concerns of those who may have voted "No" on the last occasion.

I do not agree with the Deputy's point of view in this matter. I doubt I have anything to say that would satisfy him.

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