All Politicians should listen to the People and be open to CHANGE
Wednesday, 24 June 2009 00:00
In the last referendum on Lisbon, I voted NO because I had serious concerns about the lack of an Irish voice on the E.U. Commission, the incorporation of the European Defence Agency (EDA) into the European treaties, the threat to our neutrality, tax, workers rights, the threat to the Oireachtas and the need to build a more democratic and peaceful Europe.   I set out my stall to the Irish people and voted NO.

I am now in the middle of a detailed consultation process with my election team and supporters. I have met the Minister for Foreign Affairs and will probably meet him again.    I am not happy with some of the people in the “Yes” campaign especially those that claim to be democrats and act in an arrogant manner.

However, this debate is bigger than me and I have a duty to put the interest of the Irish people first. I am not going to play politics and will do my best to make an informed decision.   I have always been an internationalist supporting human rights across the globe and not just in the E.U.

During the debate I wanted firm and legal guarantees.   I also wanted a commitment to a protocol.   We now appear to have achieved these objectives.   There is now a package or legally binding guarantee on the table.   I have to look at them seriously and I cannot just walk away and say No for the sake of saying NO.

-  2  -

Lisbon 2 is a step in the right direction.   We appear to remain in control of our own tax rates, Ireland’s traditional policy of military neutrality seems to be guaranteed and there’s a solemn declaration making clear the importance of workers rights and public services.   Can I ignore cast-iron legal guarantees on taxation or neutrality?

Over the next few weeks, I will work closely with my election team and participate in the Debate.   I will remain open on Lisbon 2 and will make up my mind on the facts.   I will ignore the spin and I will challenge any politicians that use the issues for personal gain.

It was disgraceful in the last referendum when politicians used posters to push themselves rather than explain the issues to our people.   It is time to grow up and be straight with our citizens.

The Irish electorate are sophisticated and can spot the game-players.   I urge your readers to listen to the debate and then make up their minds.   Do not be bullied by misinformation.   I still have major concerns about Lisbon and the activities of some in the European Union.   However this will not stop me making a decision that is in the interest of the Irish people.

I have now moved from being a “No Voter” to being a floating voter.   I am open to the development of a more peaceful and democratic Europe.

Finian McGrath T.D.