Brian Hayes (Fine Gael)

There is general agreement that our Constitution has always been above and beyond party politics. When we change, amend or reform our Constitution there is usually a sense of agreement about the substance of the issue to be put to the people. Does the Leader agree the Government's decision to hold a referendum on the sensitive issue of citizenship rights on the same day as the local and European elections on 11 June is abhorrent and wrong? Does she also agree the manner in which the Government has decided to force this measure through the Houses, bringing the other House back a week early from the Easter recess and the complete lack of all-party consultation and agreement on this matter, is a sign that some politicians want to use this issue as a glorified race card in advance of the elections?

Ireland needs a serious debate on the issue of immigration, particularly the position of non-nationals, but we will not have that debate if this minor point becomes the focus for all publicity between now and 11 June. This is a bad day's work. The House has a fundamental responsibility, because it does not have a political mandate from the people, to point out these issues to the Government. Members on both sides of the House rightly said to the Government three weeks ago that we should not have this referendum at the same time as the local and European elections. That is the voice of the House and it is the way in which this House can be unique. It has historically played a key role in our political establishment because it has been able to guide the Government in a non-political fashion.

I ask the Government to rethink its strategy on this matter. I know we will have an opportunity to debate it later, but this is a fundamental point. We should not change our Constitution for party political ends. We remember the mistake that was made when the amendment on abortion was inserted into the Constitution 20 years ago. Now, those who say they support the rights of the unborn wish to limit their rights and the rights of their parents. It is a bad day's work. I ask the Government to reconsider.