Singing ‘Rule Britannia - vote no!' UKIP in ireland can only help yes side

Issued : Tuesday 15 September, 2009

Speaking from Strasbourg today, Alan Kelly stated that the intervention of the UK Independence Party in the Lisbon Treaty referendum was a boost to the 'Yes' side.

Alan Kelly said: "Those of us who share a vision of a united, progressive Europe need to work hard to ensure that the Lisbon Treaty is passed in the coming weeks.

"On the regressive side, I understand that Mr. Nigel Farrage and his UKIP cohorts intend to canvass in Ireland in the coming weeks. I presume they'll come over with their imperialist rhetoric. The thought of their smug smiles turns my stomach.

"However I do not believe they will be smiling after October 2nd. I believe the intervention of Nigel Farrage and his post-colonial UKIP cohorts will encourage the Irish to vote Yes.

"I hope Mr Farrage and the UKIP party come bearing a Union Jack singing ‘Rule Britannia – Vote No' and I hope he's seen around Kilmainham Gaol, the GPO or Soloheadbeag. Imagine the reception they'd get.

"Mr Farrage and his people are out of touch when it comes to Europe and they are certainly bordering on insanity if they think Irish people would in any way listen to them. 700 years was enough. Those days are over".

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