John Minihan (Progressive Democrats)

I am glad it was isolated to Cork city. However, I appeal to all Members to prevent this debate being replicated in such an outrageous manner throughout the country on 11 June.

Have I reservations about having thereferendum on 11 June? Any Member would have reservations if he or she had a similar experience. The Government has made a decision which I respect. I hope the referendum can be addressed in a temperate and constructive manner to allow the people to decide. If this debate is used to incite racial tensions for personal political gain, there will be innocent victims. I hope there is a rational debate in the weeks ahead. When it is over, I hope we can hold our heads high in the knowledge that a difficult situation was dealt with in a humane and constructive manner, ensuring that what is good about Ireland, which we are proud of, remains intact. A coalition of extremes from both sides of the debate cannot be allowed to hijack this issue and defeat the silent majority's viewpoint. The one advantage of the 11 June date is that an acceptable degree of voter turnout is assured. I place my trust in the silent majority to exercise its democratic right responsibly. I spoke to the motion and I look forward in the weeks ahead to speaking on the substantive issue.