Dáil debates

Tuesday, 21 February 2012

4:00 pm

Photo of Gerry AdamsGerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein)

I wish to raise a number of issues with the Taoiseach but will focus for now on the issue of the referendum. The Taoiseach stated once again in his response that he is waiting for word from the Attorney General on whether there should be a referendum on the new fiscal treaty. There is a matter of democratic principle involved here. It is likely this treaty, which will have long-standing and profound effects, will be the most important the Government will sign up to during its term or terms in office. This treaty will introduce a regime of austerity and will, contrary to the Taoiseach's assertion that he wants to take back our economic sovereignty, centralise that with unelected officials at the heart of the two-tier European Union. In that context, it is essential that citizens have their say on this issue.

It is clear that this Government does not want to hold a referendum. If it did, one would be held. The Government is using the Attorney General as a shield. Will the Taoiseach concede that the people should have their say on a matter of this importance? While it should not be within his power to prevent this, he clearly intends to do so. When does the Taoiseach expect to receive word from the Attorney General on whether a referendum will be held? The Attorney General has a public interest mandate. Is it not in the public interest that we all know her advice? Will the Taoiseach share with this Chamber the exact proposition which is provided to him by the Attorney General?

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