Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

I agree with Senator Alex White's call on the Taoiseach to clarify the issue of concern to SIPTU regarding the Lisbon treaty. We were happy when clarification issued to the IFA earlier this week and the assurances given allowed the association to come on board to support the treaty. The key issue affecting unions and workers is that we will continue to have a strong economy and create and retain jobs. Jobs are very much at the core of the debate on the treaty and the strongest assurance that can be given to workers and future generations is that the treaty and Ireland's deep, ongoing involvement in Europe will be the best way forward for the economy and of ensuring jobs will continue to be created in the numbers they wish. The passage of the treaty is the best guarantee of job security and job creation.