Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

To return to Mr. Richmond's comments, we need to rethink the reasons we want citizens to support the European project. In the past, these reasons were clear. Initially, it was argued that European integration is a vastly better alternative to the wars that have destroyed our continent. Subsequently, an argument was made that we should support European integration because of the economic benefits of the euro. We are now in a position where both of these pitches are no longer clear-cut. The argument about war is less relevant because of the generational change that has taken place, while the economic argument can no longer be made for clear reasons with which we are all familiar. What are the best reasons one can present to the undecided in support of the view that Ireland's future lies in an integrated Europe?

The backdrop to the European project will change radically if, as is possible, the United Kingdom holds a referendum on EU membership. While this decision will depend on which party leads the next British Government, there is at least a 50-50 chance that Britain will hold a referendum. The political cycle makes inevitable that a movement such as the Five Star Movement in Italy, Syriza in Greece or the True Finns party will enter government in a European country at some point. Mr. Richmond and Ms Sparks are supportive of Europe but are not aligned to a political party and do not adhere to any particular philosophy about how integration should take place. What, in their view, are the most convincing arguments for the European project?