Ulick Burke (Fine Gael)

I apologise for the unavoidable absence of our spokesperson on European and foreign affairs, Senator Bradford, owing to a family bereavement.

I warmly welcome the Minister of State to the House. Despite the fact that this is a short Bill, his final sentence summed up its significance. If the electorate had not given a strong "Yes" vote, we would not be debating this Bill today and would probably have to adopt a different stance.

I endorse the Minister of State's sentiments in complimenting the role played by the forum for Europe in explaining the shortfalls apparent in the first referendum. Were it not for some of the individuals on the forum travelling around the country, encouraging the electorate with a convincing message, a sizeable proportion of the electorate might have abstained or voted "No". The Minister of State said that in the many places he has been since the referendum he has received warm praise and acknowledgement that Ireland had been generous in support of the treaty. That is welcome.