Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

One does not have to be prophetic to conclude from recent events that the EU is at a crossroads, and by extension Ireland is at a crossroads as well. There will be a temptation, in the interests of political expediency, to engage in posturing rather than to act at this time. It would be wrong and disingenuous, however, of any Member of the Oireachtas to play on the fears and suffering of the people at present. There is a particular time in the history of every nation when we should all act for the common good. We should be prepared to set party political interests to one side. We do that in wartime and in times of emergency. The precipice may be a distance away at present, but we need to stop and reflect. I hope there will be no political points-scoring at this time. I recall, when sitting on the other side of the House, that I praised Alan Dukes for the Tallaght strategy, which I thought was very patriotic. Now, sitting on this side of the House, I would adopt exactly the same role. It would be in the interests of this nation if we all decided to work towards a consensus on the treaty and what is before us. I do not think history will be kind to us, and I do not think the people who are suffering on the ground will be grateful, if we do not at this stage realise the seriousness of what is facing us.

I make an appeal, having been in this House for the best part of 14 years, that we all step back, as public representatives and engage in an honest, sincere and practical way on this matter. We can disagree on many other things, but we have an opportunity, if we stand together in a cohesive manner, to send a strong message to the people that we will give them honest, sincere and effective leadership and, at the same time, send a message abroad that we are united as a people and we will not be easily picked off by the big powers in Europe. I have no doubt that if we fragment politically on this issue, we will face a serious situation. I appeal to everyone on this issue. Let us try to work in a positive and cohesive manner for the good of all people on this island. I hope we will not be judged for having played politics with the lives of the people at this time.