Pat Casey (Fianna Fail)

I welcome the Minister of State to the House and today, as we celebrate Europe Day, we reflect on Ireland's significant role within the European Union and the profound impact our membership has had on our nation. Europe Day is particularly special for Fianna Fáil. It was our party, in Government, that led Ireland into Europe in 1973, marking the culmination of a decade-long campaign. Over the past 52 years, Ireland has made remarkable progress and has significantly contributed to the development of a modern European Union, which we should be proud of, and makes us all look forward to the next 50 years.

As we celebrate Europe Day, we must also acknowledge the important role of the Council of Europe, distinct from the European Union. The Council of Europe is an international organisation dedicated to protecting human rights, democracy and the rule of law across Europe. It was established in 1948 and comprises more than 40 countries, including Ireland. The Council of Europe fosters co-operation and solidarity among European nations, playing a vital role in promoting these fundamental values. I am delighted to have the opportunity to be part of the Irish delegation to the Council of Europe and look forward to continuing Ireland's role on the council.

Since joining the EU almost 52 years ago, Ireland has seen a transformative impact. In the five decades since joining Europe, the EU has seen Ireland emerge as a modern, open economy and society shaped by close co-operation with our European partners. Far from diminishing our sovereignty, our EU membership has strengthened it, giving us a reach and influence we would not otherwise have achieved. Our membership has played a vital role in the journey towards peace and reconciliation on this island. For as long as the UK was a fellow member state, Europe provided a valued shared space where Irish and British Ministers could co-operate and get to know one another.

Our European partners' support continues today through generous EU support for peace and reconciliation programmes, benefiting communities in the North and South and strengthening prosperity across the island. Sadly, this year we again mark Europe Day with a war on the Continent caused by the savage and criminal aggression of Russia against Ukraine and its people. This is a war against the idea that the people of Europe should be able to live in a free democracy. Fianna Fáil and Ireland stand with Ukraine and fully support its application to be part of the European membership. Looking ahead, Ireland remains committed to furthering the goals of the European Union. Ireland aims to continue advocating for strong human rights protections, especially in the areas of digital privacy and the rights of migrants and refugees. We will strengthen democratic institutions and processes, ensuring they remain resilient against threats like disinformation, supporting legal reforms and enhancing the rule of law, including measures to combat corruption in judicial systems. As we celebrate Europe Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to the values and principles that unite us. The European Union and the Council of Europe, in promoting human rights, democracy and the rule of law, are essential and their impact on Ireland has been significant.