Ireland makes up almost 1% of the present population of the EU. It is a small country on the periphery of Europe. As a result of our membership we have received €35 billion which has been invested in our roads, agriculture and training etc. Some 700,000 more people have been employed since 1973. Our standard of living has greatly improved. Our exports have grown enormously. We have low interest rates. This is a wealthy country and must now share the burden of enlargement. A "No" vote would show a lack of generosity to the applicant countries. I agree with Senator Hayes that we have taken Europe and its benefits to us for granted.