Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

I support previous speakers who expressed satisfaction at the progress made in respect of the Irish pork industry. However, I concur with those who intimated that it is a case that the battle has been won but that the war is far from over. We must focus our efforts on ensuring, not just domestically but internationally, that Irish meat can be returned to supermarket shelves as the greenest, cleanest, best quality food in Europe. The Government, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and Bord Bia will be obliged to do a great deal of work in respect of this matter. It is important that the House, in the form of regular motions and debates, champion the cause of Irish food and highlight that it always will be the best quality food available on supermarket shelves worldwide.

I welcome the fact that the Government appears to be in a position to make some degree of progress in respect of the Lisbon treaty. Previous speakers referred to the issues that arose during the referendum campaign that took place in the summer. However, Ireland and the world have changed in economic, social and political terms in the intervening period. Six to 12 months ago, people harboured a great many concerns. Now, however, our greatest concern must be for the state of the Irish economy and the position with regard to job creation, job losses and unemployment.

We can argue, without fear of contradiction, that if this country is to survive, thrive and succeed in economic and social terms, it must remain at the very heart of Europe. That is why it is important that a reasonable and rational debate takes place in respect of the Lisbon treaty. Members of the House should state that the second referendum on the Lisbon treaty will be of fundamental importance in the context of the economy and all the people who live on this island. We must champion that argument and not allow any sideshows or irrelevant views to cloud people's perspective. The new debate on the Lisbon treaty must focus on Ireland's future in Europe, the strength and growth of our economy and the creation of jobs for our young people.