David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Yes, I know that.

Finally, I note that after this Bill, Members will be asked to pass this piece of rubbish, namely, the motion that is No. 2 on the Order Paper. This is another clear example of the Government usurping the right of the Referendum Commission, because this purports to write for that commission part of the information that will be distributed. This is as grossly wrong as the manner in which, last Friday, the Government in a unique act first suspended the Standing Orders of this House and then bypassed the Committee of Selection. I have never known anything like that previously. Let the people of Ireland beware: if this is what happens when there are two Houses, then God help Ireland if the Government manages to get rid of this House. I rely, as I always have done, on the good sense of the people of Ireland. I believe they will perceive that they have an open goal. The Government, very cleverly and strategically, may have placed the referendum before the budget, because this will be one hell of a budget. This will be a savage budget and nothing the Government proposes would be passed thereafter.