Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

They speak from both sides of their mouths. There is a need to examine why people voted against the treaty and, most importantly of all, to establish how best we can address these reasons.

As a country, we now face just about the greatest diplomatic and international challenge in our modern history. We have to convince ourselves and, more importantly, others that we want to find a solution that places us at the heart of Europe. I agree with the comments made earlier in the Dáil by Deputy Gilmore that we should not lose sight of the advances that have been made through our EU membership, particularly in the area of social Europe. I do not believe last Thursday's vote should be seen as a rejection of Europe or of the need to continue to improve the Union's functioning and effectiveness; nor should it be seen as a sign that we as a nation have changed either our affection for Europe or our desire to stay part of the Union.

My view remains that Ireland's future is bound with that of Europe. We now face uncertainty and a real challenge and we will have to face both with great care. It is incumbent on us to ensure we respond carefully to the decision of the Irish people and with the interests of Ireland at heart. As I said at the outset, they made a clear decision last Thursday and it now remains for us to pick up from where that decision leaves us. We must lead this country forward into a future which is less certain than it was last week.