Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

Given our political responsibility to the electorate, further debating time and clarity are necessary to wipe away confusion and apathy in so far as is possible and to maximise the number of people voting. The majority of Senators hope the referendum will be carried and 100% of Senators hope for a high turnout, with the people coming out in their droves to cast their verdict. However, this will only occur if we can provide answers to some of the questions still in the public arena. All that the House can do is to provide more time for Senators on all sides of the debate to continue making statements and providing information and clarity.

Will the Leader set aside substantial time next week? There is no point in debating the matter in three weeks' time and wondering what went right or wrong. Next week will be our opportunity to play our part in advancing democracy and the people's knowledge of this important treaty. We can then go back to debating other important issues such as the economy, the jobs crisis and so on. However, the number one priority for next week must be the Lisbon treaty.