Séamus Healy (Tipperary, Workers and Unemployed Action Group) | Oireachtas source

I too wish to oppose the Chief Whip's proposal on this matter. It is an attempt to rush the matter through the House and present the public with a fait accompli. Although obviously an issue for the House, as I said yesterday it is not just an issue for the House. It is also an issue for the public. There needs to be full public debate, discussion and scrutiny on the issue which cannot be done in the parameters set out by the Chief Whip.

It is quite clear to everyone that there is no deadline of any kind and no necessity to rush the matter through the Houses of the Oireachtas. Participation in PESCO undermines Irish neutrality and sends us in the direction of a European army. We all raised issues in this regard during the debate on the Lisbon treaty when we were told nothing like it would happen but here it is before us. It also raises the issue of additional expenditure in this area. The figure of 2% of GDP would be at least double, if not more, of our current spending in this area.

Given the issues that arise regarding housing, health and other public services, those services could well do with the money rather than having it paid to the arms industry.

I oppose this. It is only fair and reasonable that the public have its say, be made knowledgeable and be allowed to scrutinise this issue over time. I expect that this matter will be deferred until the new year to allow for the public discussion and debate.

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