Ann Ormonde (Fianna Fail)

I welcome the Minister here today and I acknowledge the work that he put into the preparation of this constitutional treaty. I also thank the MEPs for their attendance in the House. It says something about the process of Seanad reform. Many years ago, we felt that it was important that we have links with the European Parliament to enable both sides to reach out to citizens. This is a golden opportunity to begin discussion on the ratification of the constitutional treaty. I also congratulate the Minister of State with responsibility for European affairs, Deputy Treacy, who is in Galway today leading a discussion on the treaty.

It is important to pay tribute to the excellent work done on the constitution by the Irish Presidency. The Taoiseach deserves particular praise for the manner in which he conducted himself during the Presidency and for his work in moulding this document.

We must now consider how to prepare for the referendum and I will raise some points which may serve to stimulate the debate. The constitution is good for Ireland and for Europe. It was debated in an open, transparent and inclusive manner and sets out a blueprint and framework to enable the EU to develop into the future in a fair and efficient way. It expresses the Union's core values of respect for human dignity, democracy and human rights.

Another important aspect of the constitution is that it enhances the powers of member states through the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality. This means that if we are unhappy with any proposals from the EU we can produce a yellow card. This is a significant development. I hope all the scrutiny and debate that is taking place in respect of the constitution means citizens will understand that no decision can be made that is not acceptable in Ireland. One of the most important elements of the constitution is simplification in that it brings together all the other texts and treaties that have accumulated since the inception of the Union into one constitutional treaty. This will allow for a clearer interpretation of the rules and regulations of the EU.

The key areas of concern to Ireland at the outset of the negotiations were tax, justice, defence and EU institutions in general. In regard to defence, the treaty's provisions make clear that Ireland will not be part of any common defence commitment. We will make our own decision whether to assist any member state in the event of an armed attack. Ireland will maintain its traditional policy of neutrality and that will be fully respected. There will be no EU army, no conscription and no military alliance. There is nothing in the constitution that threatens Ireland's long-held policy of military neutrality.

Several misguided notions prevail in regard to the development of the EU. One argument still being trotted out is that the constitution will end Ireland's neutrality, turn the EU into a superpower and undermine national parliaments and their citizens. According to another school of thought, the European project is moving in a direction that is too liberal, the treaty is too Americanised and the welfare states, public services and trade union strength are increasingly at risk.

There are undoubtedly concerns that our national and cultural identity may be eroded by closer integration at EU level. Most of all, there is concern about the level of knowledge that citizens have about the EU and the impact this may have on attitudes and political behaviour. Notwithstanding the generally positive attitude of citizens towards the EU, a lack of knowledge means a lack of interest. We need only refer to the first referendum on the Nice treaty for evidence of this. The lesson from that experience is that we must communicate and engage with citizens and mobilise them to support the treaty. The more people know about it, the more likely they are to support it. We must ensure citizens are informed through a vigorous public debate on television and radio.

I compliment the National Forum on Europe for its excellent work under the chairmanship of Senator Maurice Hayes who is undertaking a nationwide series of information seminars. We cannot allow an information vacuum to develop because others will seek to exploit the holes in public awareness that arise from such a vacuum. National parliaments must work with the European Parliament to promote the treaty. I hope we can succeed in reaching out to citizens over the coming months so they can make an informed decision and ensure a successful referendum.