Dáil debates

Tuesday, 21 February 2012

4:00 pm

Photo of Enda KennyEnda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Deputy Adams and his party, Sinn Féin, have a particular view of Europe, which is their own business. As I said to Deputy Martin on many occasions, we will not develop this country, the European Union or eurozone by following austerity programmes. This must be balanced with a demand structure which allows growth of an economy in terms of jobs and opportunities, such as those welcomed by Deputy Adams in Dundalk today.

The Government is committed to putting two referenda to the people, namely, the referendum on child protection and on abolition of the Seanad. The Deputy will be aware that for either to happen, constitutional change is required. The Attorney General has been asked to consider the wording of the treaty which has been accepted by 25 of 27 countries, including Ireland. She must consider if that wording is in compliance with Bunreacht na hÉireann and, therefore, European Union treaties and legal obligations. From that point of view, the Government awaits the Attorney General's advice. As regards when she will provide that advice, while I have not pressurised her or asked for a timeframe - the Deputy will be aware it is not my place to do so - I expect it will be presented in two to three weeks. I cannot answer for the Attorney General. When I have been formally advised of the Attorney General's advice, I will of course make it known to the House and the country. It is in everyone's interest that I do so. That is the position. We have always followed such a process in this country. Where a change of competency in the context of Europe is required, it is normal to seek the advice of the Attorney General, following which the Government makes it decision. I have made clear that following the Attorney General's advice, the Government will act accordingly.

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