Dáil debates

Tuesday, 21 June 2016

Pre-European Council: Statements

 

4:45 pm

Photo of Micheál MartinMicheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I will just conclude, if I may.

A vote for "Remain" is a vote for a positive vision of the future. A vote for "Leave" is at best a dramatic risk and more likely a return to a time defined by destructive competition between nations. Such a vote would be cheered by the extreme right and extreme left as well as authoritarian countries.

Whatever happens, we should agree that next Tuesday we will have a proper discussion about the next steps and that the Government should present its proposals to the House. At the summit the Taoiseach should be absolutely clear not just that Ireland will remain a member of the Union but also that we are committed to an ongoing programme of constructive reform. This is, now more than ever, essential. We will have to collectively address the growing anti-EU sentiment across Union member from Western Europe in particular. Planning a pathway of real reform measures would address people's concerns.

I shall conclude. Do I have ten or 15 minutes?

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.