Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

I agree with Senator Ormonde's comments on the Lisbon treaty. I ask the Leader of the House to devote a certain amount of time for a discussion between now and the referendum date. I appreciate that the Joint Committee on European Affairs, of which I am a member, will undertake a tour of our major cities and towns to explain the reform treaty. The Forum on Europe is also involved in a similar process. The President of the Irish Farmers Association, Mr. Padraig Walshe, is attending a meeting of the Joint Committee on Agriculture, Fisheries and Food today to update members on the activities of the EU External Trade Commissioner, Peter Mandelson, during the negotiations on the world trade agreement. His main point is that the commissioner is selling the futures of the farmers of this country. I ask the Seanad Committee on Procedure and Privileges to invite the President of the European Commission, Mr. Barroso, and the Commissioner, Mr. Mandelson, to come to this House to explain their activities during the current round of talks. This House should go through each item in the Lisbon reform treaty, as Senator Ormonde has suggested.

We could have a debate on agriculture, and the human rights issues that are part of the treaty. We would be doing a great service because the Lisbon reform treaty is the most important issue to face this country in this century. The people of Ireland, on the edge of Europe, have the final say in a decision that affects 500 million people. I hope the Cathaoirleach, the Committee on Procedure and Privileges and the Leader will work during the Easter recess to formulate a rolling debate on every facet of the treaty, with Ministers and, if possible, Commissioners, coming here, not to influence the vote, but to explain each aspect of this complex treaty. We could play an important role in dealing with these issues. When we have this lovely Chamber at our disposal we should use it to the best of our ability.