Seanad debates

Wednesday, 16 October 2002

European Union (Scrutiny) Bill, 2001 changed from European Union Bill, 2001: Second Stage.

 

It is a marvellous honour to have the opportunity of this very detailed debate that has taken place over the last few months. Perhaps we ought to be grateful to those who voted "No" in 2001. The eyes of 340 million people across Europe are focused upon Ireland. Let there be no doubt that there is no safety net in the event of another "No" vote. It would be a case of going back to the drawing board. All kinds of statements can be made and arguments concocted, but the reality in law is that the Nice treaty has to be agreed by all 15 member states. We cannot agree to the Nice treaty unless the Irish people vote "Yes" next Saturday. Propaganda has been put out in the last week to the effect that there is no point in voting "Yes", that enlargement will go ahead anyway, but it certainly will not.

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