Clare Daly (Dublin North, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 65: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to hold a referendum on the changes to the Lisbon treaty that have been agreed at the European Council; his plans to introduce legislation in Dáil Éireann; and the time frame envisaged for same. [16395/11]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The 24-25 March European Council adopted the Decision amending Article 136 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union in connection with the proposed new European Stability Mechanism. This Decision shall enter into force on 1 January 2013 provided that all Member States have notified the completion of the procedures for the approval of the Decision in accordance with their respective constitutional requirements. Having considered the matter carefully, including the legal advice of the Attorney General, the Government is satisfied that the amendment to the Treaty is compatible with the Constitution. As no amendment of the Constitution arises, a referendum will not be required in order for Ireland to approve the amendment to Article 136 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.