Eugene Regan (Fine Gael)

The institutional arrangements for the European Parliament were never an issue in the referendum. No constitutional issue arises. It is a problem we have created and there are no objections to the European Parliament elections being held on the basis of a change in the number of MEPs, as envisaged by the Lisbon treaty.

It is incumbent on the Irish Government to contribute to a solution to this immediate problem. I accept that the rejection of the treaty will not be easily resolved but we have an immediate problem with the alienation of many people in Europe in respect of the effect on the European Parliament elections. Ireland should come up with a proposal on how this could be resolved. This could be done before the European Council meeting in December. The Seanad can play a role in this. We have an interest in good relations with the European Parliament and in fostering good relations throughout Europe. This will have a negative effect on this country and it is an immediate problem to which we can contribute a solution.