Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I never mentioned the health service but I acknowledge the wonderful service that nurses, doctors and all kinds of specialists give. I have been a beneficiary of that myself, but the Minister is trying to distract me. I never mentioned it today.

The people voted on the Lisbon Treaty in 2009. They did not vote for this. That is sure and certain. The Government has scant regard for articles of the Constitution or the people's decision, as far as I am concerned. Why are we rushing this? The Minister said there will be legislation, but if we vote to opt into this tonight, we can never opt out. It is as clear as the nose on our faces that we can never opt out. The Minister is talking about debate. There was no debate in this House. There were statements.

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