It was important we revisit the Nice Treaty referendum decision to ensure the euro was protected and we were changing to a strong currency, Mr Joe O'Toole (Ind) stressed.
To do this, we had to have a structured, strategic Yes campaign. "There should not be just simply chiefs but also Indians. What happened last week in terms of our future in Euroland was a disaster."
Leaders of pro-ratification groups had been involved, but, in terms of the trade union movement, "we didn't perhaps get down to the membership, get down to the grassroots and make it happen," Mr O'Toole said. He was speaking in the debate on the Euro Changeover (Amounts) Bill, which was passed.
The Minister for Finance, Mr McCreevy, said the main aim of the Bill was to replace Irish pound amounts with amounts in euros to apply from January 1st next. Along with other measures, "the Bill should broadly complete what might be called the euro price list for the more common transactions between the citizen and the State," he added. Mr John Dardis (PD) said that the Minister for Foreign Affairs should report to the Seanad on the discussions between the Taoiseach and other European governments, as there seemed to be confusion in light of comments, he said.
Mr Ernie Caffrey (FG) said a fresh look at the Referendum Commission was needed. Ms Mairin Quill (PD) said the basis of a democracy was to be well informed. She is not certain it was best transmitted by the Referendum Commission. Mr Jim Glennon (FF) called for a debate on the McKenna judgement, but said the Referendum Commission had been the target of undue criticism.