Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

There is still time to involve the people of Ireland in this momentous decision. The Taoiseach has no mandate to negotiate with the IMF, the European Commission and the ECB in this regard. He is doing it over the people's heads because he says his way is the only way. It is not, and it is now proven to be catastrophically wrong. The Taoiseach can go to the country and let the people elect a Government with a clear majority and a clear plan and strategy to restore hope and confidence. It will be imbued with the courage and freshness of a Government that wishes to rebuild our country, give our people a future of opportunities and get them away from these waves of disillusionment. Is the Taoiseach prepared to do that in the interests of our democracy?

See this speech in context