Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

There is a procedure to be followed for the holding of a referendum. The Government is committed to that and we will follow the process that we have to put in place to comply with the conditions of holding a referendum. Clearly, the ratification of the stability treaty means countries that do not ratify the stability treaty will not in any eventuality be able to draw funding from the ESM. This is of particular importance to this country in the eventuality that, at some future time, funds might be required. It is an insurance policy for our children and for the future of our country. In due course, when the Government makes its decision on the proposed date to hold a referendum, that will be announced immediately.

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