Dara Murphy (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)

That is what the rest of us can deliver on. In respect of the motion, the key message we will have over the next couple of months is truth, which is what people will get from this side of the House. Even before a date has been set for the referendum, we are already seeing more misinformation coming from Sinn Féin. When all the arguments and facts have been fully aired and debated, we believe the people will view ratification of the stability treaty as another step in the rebuilding of confidence in Ireland's economy and in our international reputation. That is why the Government is going to make an unprecedented effort to give the people the facts and the information they need to make an informed decision about this treaty.

At the heart of the treaty is a new compact for countries using the euro that is designed to restore stability, confidence and growth along with a commitment to support each other through times of crisis and market speculation. Member countries will agree to reinforce the rules and to cut out and prevent excessive Government borrowing. This is like a home insurance policy that protects families against risk but also requires that families minimise those risks by putting in place smoke alarms and proper locks. The stability treaty offers protection to countries that follow these rules.

A "Yes" vote offers the rules-based economic stability, certainty and investment that our recovery requires. It will keep us at the heart of the euro and the eurozone. A "No" vote is a step back into the unknown and into isolation and the financial and economic instability that brought the country to the edge of collapse under the previous Government. The Government will not allow that to continue. I congratulate the Minister for Finance on the excellent work he does on our behalf.

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