David Norris (Independent)

I have already spoken extensively on the Lisbon treaty issue and I do not intend to rehash the arguments as it would be inappropriate to do so. However, the reason I will oppose the second referendum is the inclusion for the first time in the architecture of the Union of the European armaments group, which is committed to the development of a massive munitions industry in Europe, centralised and for export. If people wonder why Mr. Ganley is interested, they might look at his apparent links to the American military-industrial complex. I was unaware of this before the matter arose. Of course these manufacturers of bombs, tanks and war planes in the United States do not want us to go into competition with them. I would have thought that was perfectly obvious. A disengagement from the European defence agency could be secured by being included in the treaty incorporating Croatia, which would be legally binding.

Yesterday, I spoke to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform about the case of Ms Pamela Izevbekhai. I was accompanied by Senator Leyden who initiated that meeting. I have placed a motion about this matter on the Order Paper and some weeks ago I offered to substitute an agreed motion for the Leader. I would be happy if this could be done, and I think it should be.

I congratulate the Government on acting quickly, effectively and decisively on the pigmeat issue. Had it not done so, the critical Opposition voices would be slaughtering the Government for not acting appropriately. I commend the Government on having done so.

Earlier this week, Senator Hannigan sought a debate on planning, which I strongly support. We should examine planning issues. One matter has been drawn to my attention concerning the Frawley site at 32-36, Thomas Street in central Dublin. The developers of the site, which contains one of only five remaining twin Dutch Billy houses — an early 18th century architectural phenomenon — have been granted planning permission for a completely unsympathetic development.

To return to Europe, I am delighted that the Government was robust there yesterday. Its proposals on changing the question of freedom of movement were firmly rejected by the Union. The Government wanted to amend a key part of the directive that gives non-EU spouses of European citizens the right to live in Ireland. What an extraordinarily inhumane attitude. I am glad the Government was quashed on that.

An article in The Irish Times reports that Ireland is one of 14 European states that restricts the rights of gay partners, so the Government is pretty inflexible in that regard. Another article in that newspaper is the most regrettable item of all.