Noel Treacy (Galway East, Fianna Fail)

In a democracy a period of reflection is advantageous to parliamentarians, who can promote the constitution, and citizens, who can receive more information through the National Forum on Europe. It is important that we embrace this together. There is no point in holding a referendum if conditions are not right for a positive outcome. The past 12 months have not been spent on analysis. The financial perspectives were agreed last December, allocating resources for the next seven years. This provides sustainability, stability and clarity for the future. The EU continues to function effectively and is focused on delivery to its citizens. The controversial services directive has been agreed. It is a credit to Commissioner McCreevy that he could make the necessary changes.

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