Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)

I am delighted to have the opportunity to say a few words on this important Bill, the European Parliament Elections (Amendment) Bill 2003. Many of us do not realise the benefits that EC membership has given us. I remember when there were campaigns around the country on the benefits of what Europe would do for us. The country has come a long way. When we look at any section of the community or society, at our roads, infrastructure or whatever, we see that our quality of life has changed much since those days when we were campaigning and people were anxious to get into the European Community. When the referendum was held, Ireland changed for the better.

Since all that change took place, many people have asked questions about Europe and what it has done for us. We have failed as a country — and perhaps Europe is responsible — to make Europe and the European Parliament relevant to the people of this country. That is very important. We have failed to explain to the ordinary man in the street the real relevance of Europe. I suppose they see, from time to time, directives coming at them regarding different areas such as health and education. I even see concern among the agricultural community, particularly progressive farmers, regarding the nitrates directive. They are causing significant concern to people who have been at the forefront of various production lines across the agricultural scene in Europe. They are worried about the nitrates directive. That is a specific example, but a significant number of directives are coming. People feel hemmed in as a result, and many members of the public working in factories, or running businesses or farms, are saying that. We must explain Europe's relevance to them.

If we were doing our job properly, there would be significant interest in European elections. However, there is not the slightest interest in the European elections this year, simply because people feel removed. If the local elections were not being held on the same day, I would hate to think what the turnout would be. That is why I believe, with the local elections held on the same day as the European elections, the turnout will be good. Local authorities have a specific role in terms of the promotion of Europe. There should be much more co-operation on the part of officials, MEPs and so on with local council members to promote ideas of Europe. Our strength as a country is our involvement in Europe, and if people continue to become as cynical as they have been over the last few years, we will face a sad state of affairs in this country.

I do not have much time, but I would like to touch on recent changes. It is very hard for MEPs to keep in touch with their constituencies when they are as big as at present. I have often wondered whether they should not be given some smaller area to look after once elected. Munster, which is now known as the South, and the eastern constituency are both big. There are many people there, and it is extremely difficult.

Deputy Ring is anxious to say a few words, and it would be remiss of me to continue. We certainly need to make Europe more relevant to ordinary people. It is very important from every perspective for our future. I am very pro-Europe, and I want the EU to continue and become stronger.

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