It is very disappointing that opponents of the Nice treaty are seeking to scaremonger the Irish people about a possible influx of people from eastern and central Europe if enlargement goes ahead. This is an inaccurate and misleading argument. Previous enlargements of the EU were also preceded by similar alarmist concerns but did not result in disturbances in the labour market in Ireland or elsewhere in Europe. The Irish Congress of Trade Unions has made it clear that there is no significant threat to employment or employment conditions as a result of EU enlargement. EU studies show that enlargement will not result in different migration patterns from the countries joining the EU. Even opponents of the Nice treaty are now saying that immigration is not relevant to the treaty. Many of the countries joining could be Ireland's natural allies in an enlarged European Union. They view us a model member of the EU. We share many political positions and aspirations with the smaller countries of the Baltic region and from eastern and central Europe. We are at a crossroads on the issue of addressing our relationship with the EU. This referendum will decide whether we wish to stay as a key player within it or drift away from participation. The Irish people will not only decide the future direction of our country but also the future direction of the European Union.