Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

It is a pity the previous speaker thought to interpret what is in my mind. I thank all Members for their contributions on this highly important issue. The manner in which the reform treaty is handled will have an extremely important bearing on Ireland's future position within the European Union. Ireland is perceived as a dynamic, progressive and forward-looking nation and the Government intends to preserve this perception. I agree with Deputy Coveney that our capacity within the European Union to win friends and partake in alliances has given us the great benefits we have enjoyed in the past. The great majority of Members rightly see Ireland's future at the heart of Europe and this view has been expressed in many contributions.

Next year, the people will have the opportunity in a referendum to make a judgment on the treaty and the evolution of the European movement itself. As a small member state, Ireland has again the opportunity to take a decision that will have a fundamental and a positive impact on the European Union that has served Ireland and Europe well. There is a responsibility on Members as public representatives to conduct a well informed, productive and truthful debate and to ensure that the people see the issues as they are.

I was somewhat surprised by some comments alleging a lack of debate in this regard. Members had a good exchange of views on these issues on 27 June and significant exchanges also took place in July. I assure all Members that I will work closely with them on this issue because I believe it to be of fundamental importance to Ireland. As one who has been involved with this treaty since the time of the European Convention, I am pleased that many of the ideas teased out at it are on the verge of being endorsed by the 27 member states in the new reform treaty. I agree with Deputies Coveney and Rabbitte it is a great pity that it is not contained within a single coherent document that citizens of Europe could pick up and read. Its loss is a tragedy because that was one of the great efforts made by the convention. However, Members should bear in mind that most of the new treaty's provisions spring directly from the convention's work, as did those of the constitutional treaty. I am disappointed the latter was not endorsed as it came forward.

After 50 years of European integration and a series of historic enlargements, there can be no gainsaying that the present European Union of 27 member states needs a new basis on which to operate. The reform treaty will provide Europe with that basis, bring an end to the debate on institutional reform and help strengthen the democratic character of the Union. It aims to bring the Union closer to its citizens and the new voting arrangements will facilitate good decision making. The proposed posts of President of the European Council and High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, which is a mouthful, will give Europe a clearer voice in the world in order that we can work to achieve progress on those issues that are of particular importance to all.

The treaty is also to be welcomed by Ireland as there is no attempt to press changes in areas of special sensitivity, such as defence and taxation. Members will be aware that I have expressed strong views on the importance of securing Ireland's reputation as a positive force within the Union in all areas in which it is growing. In particular, I underlined the need to differentiate ourselves by underlining our commitment to effective EU action in the areas of criminal law and police co-operation. I am satisfied the political declaration under discussion highlights Ireland's intention to participate in Europe's efforts to combat cross-border crime to the maximum possible extent, unless good legal reasons exist for not so doing. I am particularly pleased there is an unequivocal commitment to being involved in police co-operation. These are very important political signals to be sent to our European partners.

In addition, Ireland has committed itself unreservedly to the Charter of Fundamental Rights and has expressed no qualms regarding the judicial jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice in the field of justice and home affairs. I am somewhat mystified by arguments that were made regarding the role of the European Court of Justice. The Government has committed itself to reviewing the special arrangements that apply to Ireland in respect of justice and home affairs after only three years. This will enable the Government to make a considered judgment on the evolution of policy in this regard.

Another issue was raised and lest hares start running across fields, I wish to make a brief reference to EURATOM. The treaty is not completely ignorant on the issue of EURATOM, which is of course outside the——

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