Catherine Noone (Fine Gael)

I welcome the news from Europe that there is to be no change to the proposed treaty. That will bring the necessary certainty to the issue and the importance of the need for the public to vote "Yes" in the forthcoming referendum. Those advocating a "No" vote must take note of it and stop misleading the public. I support what Senator Susan O'Keeffe said about Libertas in particular, which seems to be particularly unfocused when it comes to the referendum. Its campaign is about all matters in the economy and says nothing about the treaty. People must realise the treaty will represent stability and has nothing to do with austerity. The idea of calling it an austerity treaty is flawed. It is a gimmick.

I also support what was said by Senator Mac Conghail on culture and arts. It is startling to hear the institutions it is proposed to close. I will not repeat what he said about history and the fact some of the institutions have been in existence for 400 or 500 years. I also call on the Minister to come to the House to discuss the matter. It is of concern that there has been no public consultation on the proposals but at least we could have some consultation on the matter in the House. I am sure the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Deenihan, would be more than happy to come to the House. I doubt he would be in a position to come today. That is something the Deputy Leader will address. Debates on arts and culture are welcome in the House but this specific matter is urgent. I urge that we would have a debate on it in the coming week, if that is possible.