Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy is reading correctly in that there were difficulties regarding voting. I would like to say, without being in any way patronising, how impressed I was by Members' contributions. I agree fundamentally with the sentiments expressed by Deputy Barrett in his unscripted contribution. There is an absolute requirement that European treaties be simple, not because people may not understand them but because we owe it to them to make the Union's processes transparent.

Although I always regarded its title as somewhat inflammatory, we have moved from a single, coherent constitutional treaty document to something less coherent, a point made so eloquently by Deputy Rabbitte in his fine contribution. That is the negative side. The positive aspect of the change is that the great bulk of the work of so many, as contained in the document, is protected.

Deputy Ó Snodaigh is correct in his observation that the document was produced by 250 representatives of the peoples of Europe, comprising those elected to the various parliaments and governments as well as diverse interest groups. It was an extraordinary and rigorous process. I was privileged to be part of it, as were Members from all sides of the House, in making a significant contribution. I agree with Deputy Rabbitte that it is a pity that the coherence that came from a single document is lost. What is important, however, is that the substance of the document — the good and valuable aspects of it — is retained.

I am sure all Members agree that one of the most uplifting elements of the agreement is the provision regarding the Charter of Fundamental Rights. It is one of the finest aspects of the agreement and an issue to which every democrat will be willing to sign up. It will not be included in the reformed treaty but will be contained in a separate document with which there will be a strong linkage. I ask those Members who have not read the charter to take the time to do so. It is so important because it speaks of the aspirations and wishes of the peoples of Europe for generations. It speaks of human dignity, the right to life, the integrity of the person, the prohibition of slavery — it sounds odd that this should be a concern in this day and age but it is a fundamental aspect — the right to liberty and security, and so on.

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