There has been cross-party support this week for the publication of the report of the Oireachtas sub-committee on Ireland’s future in the EU.
Fine Gael MEP Jim Higgins said it was vital the Government takes on board the suggestions of the sub-committee. He was also delighted at the suggestion that MEPs be given the right to speak in the Dáil.
Meanwhile Deputy Beverley Flynn, who is a member of the committee who published the report following the failure of the government to ratify the Lisbon Treaty, said Mayo’s interests are best served when Ireland is at the centre of the EU.
“This report follows one of the most comprehensive reviews of Ireland’s relationship with its European partners. Seven weeks of hearings took pace with various views being put forward on our future within the EU following the Lisbon result.
“The conclusion that Ireland is best served by remaining at the centre of the union is in line with a wide range of studies which show that people in Mayo and across the country have a very positive view of Europe.
“However, it is clear that there is an information gap in explaining the workings of the Union and the positive benefits it has had on the lives of Irish people. We must now work to bridge that gap.”
Dep Flynn added that the unprecedented events which have impacted on the global economy in recent weeks have underlined the need for a strong EU and for a Europe-wide response to the crisis.
“It is in the best interests of business in Mayo to continue to have open access to one of the largest markets in the world. Our EU membership has delivered jobs into our communities, and will continue to do so.”
According to Dep Flynn she has been assured by Minister Micheál Martin that the report will now form part of the Government’s overall response to the issues highlighted by the Lisbon vote.
“The Government will now continue its deliberations on how we can move forward to ensure that Ireland’s role within the EU is protected and that we can continue delivering for communities in Mayo,” concluded Dep Flynn.
