Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

As the debate on the possibility of a second referendum on the Lisbon treaty gathers momentum, we must remind ourselves that the people decisively and overwhelmingly rejected the treaty in the previous referendum. It is important to recall that we are not dealing with some form of eccentric fringe group. Having listened to the debate on the treaty, the majority of the people made a decision. The question of whether the debate was properly informed is a different issue.

People have many concerns about this matter and we will be obliged to consider them. One of these concerns relates to the high level of bureaucracy we have experienced as a result of our membership of the EU. The bureaucracy to which I refer has not been spread evenly across the other member states.

Other concerns such as those relating to conscription and similar issues also arose during the referendum campaign. Those of us who canvassed on behalf of a "Yes" vote discovered that young people fear that at some point in the future their children would be conscripted into some form of European military alliance. The position was similar in respect of pro-life issues. Many people genuinely felt that Ireland's stance on abortion would not be protected under the Lisbon treaty. There are other social issues about which, in the context of the treaty, people are concerned.

It would be wrong to believe that we must focus on persuading a small group. We are dealing with the majority of the people and, in that context, we must be open and transparent with them. The Government is approaching this matter in the correct way. However, what we obtain in addition to the provisions of the treaty must be legally binding. It will not be possible to consult the people again unless we can show that what we have to offer has a legal basis.

I agree with the approach taken in respect of Ireland's Commissioner. This is a major issue, particularly when one considers that we need representation in order to protect our national interests. I urge caution in respect of this matter and suggest that people not fall into the trap of believing that we are dealing with a small group of people. We are dealing with a majority of the population and we must convince these individuals that being at the heart of Europe is vital to our future.