Final call for Yes vote in Lisbon Treaty
Posted by Alan Kelly on September 29, 2009 at 06:00 PM
Time is drawing nearer now on the Lisbon Treaty referendum and I’d like to take one last opportunity to stress the importance of securing a Yes vote in Ireland.
As MEP for Munster/Ireland South I am in strong position to identify the huge benefits that Europe can bring to Ireland.
By ratifying the treaty, it will clearly demonstrate that Ireland will work with Europe to find an achievable solution to our current economic problems. For this reason especially it is so important to send a clear signal to Europe expressing that Ireland is a fully engaged member state, willing to work together towards economic stability.
After meeting so many people over the last number of weeks, it seems to be widely understood that a Yes vote will fully address the concerns expressed by Irish people in last year’s referendum. Key issues such as guaranteeing an Irish Commissioner in Brussels, retaining military neutrality and issues surrounding abortion, education and family will all remain intact and secure. However, it is important for people now to weigh up all of these benefits as a whole and bring a positive message of ‘Yes’ to the polling stations on Friday.
When the treaty is ratified, Irish people will be able to look forward to enhanced public services and a new commitment to promote employment. The door will be opened to fair trade, humanitarian aid and solidarity with developing countries. More so, the Charter of Fundamental Rights will become legally binding and will ensure equal treatment for all workers.
Overall, to put it simply, the benefits of voting Yes on Friday October 2nd are endless. We can become an active member state of Europe by ensuring that our voices are heard through the proposed ‘Citizens Initiative’.
The Lisbon Treaty is offering us a valuable opportunity for the future of Ireland. So, one last time I would like to ask everyone out there to go the polling stations on Friday and do the very best thing you could do for our country – vote Yes!
