Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

The deliberations that have taken place at the Convention on the Future of Europe will see the most profound constitutional transformation of the Union since its inception. The Convention process has moved rapidly since it was inaugurated in February 2002. Many people have been surprised by the fact that its work has moved on so fast in dealing with such a complex issue. It shows the determination and commitment of the nations within Europe to shape and positive, cohesive and constructive future for an enlarged Union.

It was imperative for Ireland to take a positive role and a proactive stance in the constitutional treaty and to embrace the challenge with great vigour and purpose. I wish to compliment the Minister of State, Deputy Roche, on his role in the process. We should also compliment the civil servants at the Department of Foreign Affairs and we should be proud of all the Irish people who fought Ireland's case throughout the Convention negotiations.

It is essential for the public to be continually informed about the process. I am convinced that more knowledge of Europe leads to more support for Europe. The nature of the Union will change, quantitatively and qualitatively, after enlargement in 2004. Constitutional, institutional and external action arrangements are necessary to ensure a cohesive and operational Union. The principal questions for Irish citizens and for ourselves, as legislators, centre around the type of future European Union we need to meet the challenges of a modern, diverse, complex and changing world, the kind of treaty the EU requires and Ireland's interests in the process.