Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

Most of us would agree that the Irish people are not a stupid race and will not be politically bribed or brow beaten.

With regard to the forthcoming vote, the most important thing over the next couple of weeks is that full information on the contents of the treaty, not on what it does not contain, will be provided to every single voter. The House can do itself a favour, but more importantly can do the public a huge political favour, by having an engaging, informative debate in advance of the legislation being published. As we know, the formula is that the legislation is published to allow a referendum, we have a debate for a day or two and a few weeks later the referendum takes place. This House, in advance of the publication of any referendum Bill, needs to have a substantive debate on the fiscal compact treaty and its contents, thus avoiding a debate on what it does not contain.

We can talk about revising history. It is quite bemusing to hear people claim that their past did not exist and they were not in government or responsible for massively incorrect financial decisions. We are now, and to use an awful political phrase, "we are where we are" and must move forward. The public demands that we do not lecture them on how to vote but advise and inform them about what the treaty contains. I ask the Leader to arrange, at an early date, a substantive debate on the fiscal compact arrangement or treaty that will be signed by the Taoiseach tomorrow. I ask that, in advance of the referendum legislation coming here, we debate the treaty and give everybody, irrespective of their views, an opportunity to debate it and not just a three minute slot each. That will be good for the House and the public. Irish people are not stupid and they want information, not lectures.