Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

In recent weeks, the House engaged in a well informed debate on the Lisbon treaty and some fine analysis was put forward by Members with regard to why the previous referendum was not successful. The House also discussed the guarantees the Government has obtained to lay to rest some of the concerns expressed by the electorate, among which were neutrality and taxation. In addition, there was the pro-life issue, which would be seen as a matter to be decided upon internally by the State. The news today that an international court could potentially set aside the guarantee relating to the latter is not a good omen for the forthcoming referendum. This could be the banana skin of which we are all afraid and which could affect the result of the referendum in the autumn.

I hope the Government will get the opportunity to ensure that this matter will not take priority over the main debate on the Lisbon treaty. I am of the view that everyone accepts that the issue of abortion is a matter on which the State should decide. Why then should an international court have the power to interfere in any way with or adjudicate on an issue of this nature?