John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)

I warmly welcome today's extensive Second Stage reading of the European Communities (Amendment) Bill 2012. Throughout this afternoon and evening, the House has heard from a range of voices from all sides which is very welcome. The debate will serve us well as the Bill goes forward next week to Committee Stage.

Before we draw the debate to a close, I want to recall the essence of this legislation. At its core the European Communities (Amendment) Bill 2012 provides a means of incorporating several developments at European Union level into the domestic law of the State. As well as being legally necessary in each instance, I welcome also the opportunity afforded by the consideration of EU-related legislation in the Houses of the Oireachtas. Such legislation affords the Oireachtas an important opportunity to further engagement with and debate on EU-related issues of importance to Ireland. In a sense, this legislation is bringing home key EU developments to our national Parliament and our law. This necessary process serves as a concrete link between what goes on in Europe and what happens here at home, as well as how those developments are translated into the State's domestic law.

The timing of today's debate is most welcome. Over the past month, we have had a vigorous and energetic debate in this House and across the country leading up to last Thursday's referendum vote. While the specifics of the stability treaty were under scrutiny during the referendum campaign, and rightly so, our engagement with our neighbours and partners in Europe, particularly with those with whom we share a common currency, formed an important context for that debate. I am greatly heartened that the citizens of Ireland responded in such a resounding manner last week. I am gratified the people saw the stability treaty for what it is, namely, an important element of the solution to addressing the economic and financial crisis which has gripped Europe and beyond for several years now.

The stability treaty and its provisions are not the whole story but it is an important element of the solution. The stability agenda must now be complemented by a growth agenda, which delivers sustainable growth and jobs for the European economy and for the people of Europe, especially our younger people. From dealing with small and medium-sized enterprises, I know that 200,000 small companies employ 1.8 million people. It is about jobs and confidence. Deputy Higgins would be well-served if he engaged with some of these companies. All the key employers were enthusiastic about supporting last week's referendum. Small businesses are the backbone of the economy.

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