Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)

I understand the political implications of a myth that has been propagated and that people want to stand on a platform and say "no" for the sake of it, but listening to them for a long time in respect of other issues did not achieve much. We must tackle environmental issues globally, including carbon emissions, climate change and the targets set for each country by the Kyoto Protocol. Were we not at the heart of the European project, we would be at a disadvantage. It is important that we not only explain the political implications of the EU treaty in the context of streamlining decision making, but also the practical everyday impact it will have on people's lives.

I have explained why Europe has been good for us, but the current challenges are global warming and climate change. Given that Europe has been a driving force in this respect, we can be at the heart of the decision-making process on how humanity addresses its affairs on this planet. We should be to the fore. The treaty will allow us to make strategic decisions at an early stage and on a basis of trust and mutual respect among EU member states. Let us not forget that larger member states will give up some of their voting entitlements. Sacrifices for the greater good are being made all around. Deputy Ferris knows that my statements are factual.

I have campaigned in favour of every EU treaty and, having lost only one, we will not lose this one. An issue that was raised each time was that of neutrality. While we must acknowledge this concern, it is being encouraged disingenuously. Everyone in the House has been elected with an equal mandate and knows that there will be no implications for our neutrality. Closer co-operation is being discussed to ensure that, as in respect of climate change and the challenges of globalisation, the EU becomes a dominant player in the world market in terms of economics and social responsibility. We should be at the heart of this decision making. Be it funding food aid programmes in Darfur or elsewhere in the Third World, Europe has an obligation to its citizens. We can decide not to be a part of this endeavour or to be a driving force. The people have taken pride in our troops serving in the United Nations.

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