The Treaty of Nice facilitates the enlargement of the European Union, which will bring boundless benefits for Irish people, especially our young population. It will benefit employment, trade and businesses in every industry. It is necessary to spell out the economic benefits of enlargement, especially to Irish trade. As a former Minister with responsibility for trade and marketing, I want to emphasise this aspect of the Treaty of Nice. Enlargement represents the process of improving the standard of living throughout the Union, most particularly in eastern Europe. By improving the economies of the accession states, we too can benefit. Ireland can increase trade in goods and services with these new members, thereby generating jobs and increasing tax revenues. Enlargement will mean an increase of 130 million customers for Irish businesses.