Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)

I also ask that the Chair signal me after five minutes have passed.

The referendum debate is one of the most important for our country's future that I have been involved in since entering politics many years ago. Never has it been more crucial that a signal be sent to the people that they should put the country first when voting and deciding on whether to vote, as they must vote to ensure the treaty goes through. If they do not, they will be neglecting their duty to our country. It is no time for the people involved in the debate to be peddling unfounded prejudices, as occurred previously. It is no time for people to indulge themselves in fairytale notions. It is a time for hard reality, namely, to do what is in the best interests of our country. The Tánaiste will be glad to hear me say this is no time for having a go at Fianna Fáil and the Government.

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