Seanad debates

Tuesday, 24 April 2012

Thirtieth Amendment of the Constitution (Treaty on Stability, Coordination and Governance in the Economic and Monetary Union) Bill 2012: Committee and Remaining Stages

 

2:00 pm

Photo of Michael MullinsMichael Mullins (Fine Gael)

I have listened to every word that was said by Senators Cullinane and Ó Clochartaigh. They have not indicated a single positive result that would be achieved by voting against the treaty. That is what people need to concentrate on. What is to be gained if the country did vote against the treaty? We are a small, open economy and we need as many friends as we can get within the European Union. We have economic and fiscal difficulties and there are major problems in Europe. This treaty will not solve all the problems of Europe but it is a step along the road to protecting the euro. As previous speakers have pointed out, it is our currency and a strong euro is of benefit to us.

Senator Cullinane said this treaty will not solve the banking crisis but this is not a banking treaty. It was never designed to solve the banking crisis but it is a first step in strengthening the euro and bringing order and stability to the euro.

Much has been made of the negative comments of some trade union leaders, who are opposed to the treaty. Some of them are far removed from reality, on fat cat salaries, out of touch with ordinary trade union members. We would be well advised to listen to the chambers of commerce and the multinational companies that are creating jobs. We should listen to the farmers' organisations that are urging support for the treaty on the basis that we are better off within a strong European movement. We should listen to the small employers who are urging support for the treaty.

It is important the people face up to the realities because we cannot afford a "No" vote. Is Sinn Féin prepared to take the gamble we will not need a second bailout from the ESM?

How are they going to explain to the people of Ireland that we are unable to pay salaries or maintain services?

The people will have some very serious decisions to make on polling day. I urge strong support throughout the business and farming communities. I urge those employees who are represented by some of the trade unions that are urging a "No" vote to consider the implications of a "No" vote for the country.

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