Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I am raising this issue in the context of Government priorities. I accept there is support for what is being proposed in these referenda and there may be good reasons for holding them, but the decision to proceed with them at this time is indicative of a Government that has lost its way when it comes to recognising what are the priorities for the Irish people. I realise there is an ideology behind the decision. I know that a sop must often be given to a smaller party to keep it happy in government. Ultimately, however, if we do not start prioritising the issues that have a real impact on the public, the disconnect between people and their politicians will continue.