Cowen: why Europe matters for us all
Brian Cowen, TD and Taoiseach
Through the last year, I worked hard with colleagues throughout the European Union to develop a comprehensive response to the fears of the Irish people as expressed in last year’s vote.
I believe the response was comprehensive and generous - rooted in a spirit of mutual respect and trust. I was particularly pleased with the warm public and private support of colleagues from within the ELDR.
It’s a good deal and the reforms of Lisbon are important, but we cannot be complacent.
Many of those who oppose the EU respect no boundaries of fact when campaigning - and they have to be challenged with a strong response and a positive message of why Europe matters for us all.
We are working hard to persuade people to vote Yes. I’ve asked every Irish person who believes in the European ideal and Ireland’s part in it to be active from now until voting on October 2nd.
Fianna Fáil has already launched a major national effort, including posters in every part of the country, leafleting, online campaigning and direct canvassing.
I, myself, am undertaking a national tour which has already covered the mid-West, south-west and South-East of the country. The response has been positive so far and hopefully it will continue that way.
By Brian Cowen, TD - Taoiseach (the Prime Minister of Ireland)
Tags: citizens, democracy, European Union, Lisbon Treaty