Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

——promoting equality, tackling discrimination and promoting openness and tolerance. As a female parliamentarian I must acknowledge that it is the European Parliament that has championed many of the important gender and social issues which confront European policymakers and legislators today. When educated Irish women were emigrating and experiencing systematic discrimination in our laws, the European Union enfranchised us in our country. I know this well as a former chairman of the National Women's Council of Ireland. We have reason to be grateful. When Ireland sought derogation, the European Union supported us in our efforts for full equality.

I would like to raise a number of issues and ask President Pöttering questions on them. One of these is climate change. The Lisbon treaty, for the first time, affirms legally the possibility of working on climate change at a European level. Europe is facing up to this serious issue and trying to lead the world in it. I would like the President to spell out the implications of the initiatives he hopes to take in the coming years and how well he thinks citizens will be able to cope with the demands inherent in that. It is critical that the interests of Irish and European agriculture are protected in world trade talks. President Pöttering might comment on that area.

The challenge for Europe is convincing people of the importance of a social Europe. The benefits of membership are not economic alone. We must ensure Europe's social agenda is not forced through an economic sieve, depriving it of its real meaning. This is critical. I would like President Pöttering to address that area. Many Irish citizens have concerns about a social Europe and how it will develop.

A number of palpable untruths have been spread about the treaty, its content and implications. It is important the decision made by the Irish people is not based on those myths. Although President Pöttering has addressed some of them, I will reiterate them, as the Leader has done, and ask him to comment on them. There is a front page story in today's edition of The Irish Times on the question of tax. The myth is that the treaty will raise taxes. Does the treaty bring tax policy within the powers of the EU? Although President Pöttering has made the answer to that clear, perhaps he would address it once again. As this is a self-amending treaty, the "no" side continues to insist this will be the last time the Irish people will have a say in any major changes on the EU. I ask the President to address that. It has been said on abortion and stem cell research that health policy does not remain a matter for the Irish people.

The major issue is militarisation and the perception that Ireland will have to join a European Army. I would like President Pöttering to address that issue because it is a cause of concern for many people. We have had a very proud record of peacekeeping and enhancement, which President Pöttering has addressed, but that is capable of being misinterpreted given the provisions of the Lisbon treaty. President Pöttering might comment on that.

I thank the President for attending today and assure him of my party's continued support for the European project and our intention to canvass with vigour for a "yes" vote in the forthcoming referendum in Ireland. I ask him to keep in mind the continued need to ensure the EU is kept accessible and relevant to its citizens throughout its member states.