Déirdre de Búrca (Green Party)

I agree with the remarks of Senator Quinn and express my regret at the comments attributed to the Taoiseach this morning in the national newspapers. He is reported to have said that those opposing the Lisbon treaty were on the "loonie left", and made other comments to which Senator Quinn referred. I say this with reluctance because if it were not for the Taoiseach I would not currently be a Member of the Seanad. I know the Taoiseach is passionately committed to seeing the Lisbon treaty supported by the Irish people in the referendum that is due to take place in a couple of months, but it is important, as I have said before, that the climate in which the debate is conducted is one of tolerance and respect. The essence of democracy is the recognition that others hold different political views which should be respected and listened to even if not agreed with. I hope that is the way in which the debate on the Lisbon treaty will be carried out, not just in this House but nationally. I do not think that name-calling or derision of the Opposition members and their motives is a good way in which to conduct the debate.