Noel Treacy (Galway East, Fianna Fail)

Having watched RTE last night, I was pleased with its detailed survey carried out by consultants into the attitudes of changing Ireland over the past 20 years. A strong, conclusive figure in excess of 70% of those polled, said we should be deeply involved in and fully engaged with Europe and all its activities. The results of that survey were positive for the country. More than 80% of those polled were satisfied with Europe's contribution, which is good from a national viewpoint. Obviously, there have been some difficulties on the European scene, including the rejection of the European Constitution by France and the Netherlands. While elements of the European impression on citizens had a contribution to make to those decisions, other domestic issues were concerned also, which the research showed had a serious bearing on the outcome of those constitutional referenda. The fact that 15 EU countries have already sanctioned the European constitution, either by referenda or parliamentary decision, shows that there is a majority in Europe in favour of how we are progressing.

There is no doubt that there are challenges ahead. Ireland's economic success to date, includes the measure of employment and mainstream economic activities here. Foreign direct investment has added to direct jobs through sub-supply sectors that have been able to feed into the situation. These are all benefits stemming from Ireland's membership of the European Union.

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