Ulick Burke (Galway East, Fine Gael)

I am pleased to have an opportunity to contribute to this debate. From listening to the contributions in the past two weeks, there is a clear indication that all of the main parties recognise the benefits we have received from our membership of Europe. Since 1973 Fine Gael has been to the forefront as a pro-European party at all times. I note that in his contribution, Deputy Peter Power clearly indicated the part played by various taoisigh from that period in supporting the idea of Europe.

Nevertheless, it is important that we realise there is work to be done to ensure that this treaty is passed. The eyes of Europe are on Ireland because we are the only country that is holding a referendum on the treaty. All of the other 26 countries have either passed the treaty through the parliamentary process or will do so in the near future. We have given the electorate the opportunity to make a decision.

At the outset of the debate the Minister of State with responsibility for European affairs, Deputy Roche, made some unhelpful comments, as did the Taoiseach on one occasion in response to something that was said. Be that as it may, there is a responsibility on the Government parties in particular to clearly rise from their slumber with regard to the treaty and show to the public that we are serious about our commitment to Europe and to ensure we deliver on this treaty campaign for the sake of the Irish people and Europe at large.

There is no doubt but that we have been major beneficiaries in many areas from European funding. I refer to the Common Agricultural Policy, the Social Fund and Structural Funds. Without that inward movement of resources to Ireland many of the major infrastructural projects would not have even started. It is an ongoing process and there are still many shortfalls in certain areas. The application and interpretation of European directives and how they are administered by our Ministers is a source of widespread concern. I hope clarification can be provided in a number of areas between now and 12 June.

The Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Deputy Browne, is present. His Department administers the REP scheme from which the agriculture sector and environmental protection has benefitted greatly. The doggedness of departmental inspectors, however, has resulted in the penalisation of applicants by 50% of payments for insignificant administrative reasons. I come from the west and am familiar with counties Galway and Mayo. A reply to a parliamentary question two weeks ago from the Department revealed that these counties experienced the highest refusal rate, including on appeal. The people who are hurt by this will obviously have serious reservations about supporting the treaty in the referendum. Such instances and many others besides have to be rectified and guarded against.

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