Michael Kitt (Galway East, Fianna Fail)

I support this treaty and congratulate the Minister and his officials on their negotiations. The treaty amends the two treaties upon which the Union is founded. I recall that when we discussed the issue before we voted the last time, we spoke about having an effective and efficient Europe and it is important to promote that in plain language.

We have seen the Union growing from six to 27 member states and we are very concerned about enhancing the role of national parliaments and the European Parliament while maintaining equal rights for all member states, particularly in the nomination of a Commissioner. The reduction in the number of Commissioners was dealt with in the Nice treaty and although it is not the most important issue to my mind, people felt there should be a voice for every country and it is important that the matter be considered.

I was glad to a see a citizens' initiative in the treaty, where citizens of the Union would have a more direct say on EU matters. That is to be welcomed, along with the Charter of Fundamental Rights, which is legally binding for the Union institutions and member states when they implement European Union law.

For the first time there is reference to a provision for combating climate change. I am glad this is to be considered, particularly as it regards developing countries. I know the Minister is interested in developing countries and helping the poorest of the poor. It is a major issue and it is welcome in that context. There is a retention of unanimous voting in the Council of Ministers in policy areas such as taxation and defence. There has been much debate over the years about the need for the European Union to speak with one voice internationally and I welcome the appointment of a high representative for foreign affairs and security policy. That person will have the responsibility to make the Union have a clearer voice in international affairs.

The guarantees which have been fought for are very welcome and these assurances meet the people's concerns. They were finalised at the June 2009 European Council. Every speaker has referred to the nomination of a Commissioner, which is very important, as there were posters in the last campaign outlining that concern. There are also legal guarantees on the right to life, family and education, taxation and security and defence. The confirmation of the importance which the Union attaches to workers' rights and social policy is one of the very welcome guarantees which have been given.

Some of the research carried out has been mentioned and I note the research done by Millward Brown. It shows a bigger turnout for the Lisbon treaty referendum compared to previous treaty votes, and the proportion of those voting "No" increased. There was also an issue concerning the amount of potential "Yes" voters who stayed at home, with one reason being the lack of understanding and knowledge of the issues. Those of us promoting a "Yes" vote in this instance must address that.

It is interesting that 60% of Irish voters believe Ireland's interests are best served by remaining fully involved in the European Union. Despite the outcome of the first Lisbon treaty referendum, Irish people are among the most positive in their attitudes toward the European Union. I understand 73% of people considered European Union membership to be very good and even among "No" voters, 63% saw the European Union as a good thing. That is well ahead of the European average of 52%. Many positive messages come from that research.

Concerns about Irish neutrality and possible conscription into a European army have been dealt with, along with issues relating to abortion. These matters were not contained in the treaty but they came up, so they have been dealt with through the guarantees. The research also addressed issues arising from advocating a referendum based on institutional reform, as this can be difficult. There is much more information available now in the national media and even among families, friends and colleagues. When we discussed issues such as institutional reform in the past, it was a big turn-off, so we must ensure the language is plain and simple on the next occasion.

I welcome the additional legal guarantees and assurances which will address the concerns of the Irish people. They have been confirmed by the European Union and I look forward to the referendum on 2 October.

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