Dominic Hannigan (Labour)

This is the final sitting day before the Lisbon treaty is put again to the people next week. Many of us have campaigned heavily during both referendum campaigns. It has been different this time. During the previous campaign key concerns were expressed and clarification sought on issues such as the loss of our Commissioner, taxation, abortion and a defence force. These have largely been addressed and it is clear people have no reason to fear the Treaty of Lisbon. If ever there was a time Ireland needed to be at heart of Europe, it is now. The economic climate has deteriorated significantly since last year and the benefits of EU membership are clear to everybody. Since we joined in the early 1970s, the country has been transformed. We can send a message next week as a nation to international investors that we are at the heart of Europe andare a well educated English speaking workforce looking for business with access to a market of more than 500 million people. I will canvass heavily during the final week of the campaign and that is the message I will put to people on the doorsteps.