I tried to write a colour piece for The University Observer about reading the entirety of the consolidated treaties on European Union, as amended by the Lisbon Treaty. I failed, but hereby post my attempt, as a warning to those who may heed it. There are two things you don’t want people to see you making – laws and sausages. 13.45 Open the PDF containing the treaties-to-be – instead of reading about the changes Lisbon would make, Shudder to see the document extending to 479 pages. Wonder if I should abandon the idea altogether and ask the Editor if she’ll consider accepting 500 words on something less barbarian, like why the EU flag should have orange stars on green, or how the euro has made shopping online (and running up enormous credit card debt) easier than failing an... Similar posts

Within the  current referendum campaign, there is a tendency amongst many on the ‘YES’ side to look back to the achievements of the past instead of forward towards the challenges and opportunities which await Europe in the coming decades. This tendency is understandable; given the advantages which this State has experienced since becoming a member of the European Union in 1972. The undoubted economic, political and social progress of our nation in the last thirty years has been largely driven by Europe. Be it women’s rights, infrastructural development or access to the internal market, it is not difficult to see the many areas in which our membership of the Union has played a key role in allowing a modern, economically successful and socially vibrant Ireland to emerge. In... Similar posts

Arguments about democratic deficit within the European Union are always a tad odd, as those who frequently bleat most about democracy, are also those who are most attached to notions of sovereignty. It is a difficult balance to maintain, as increased democracy at a European level (say the election of the president of the European Commission) will generally result in a diminution of national sovereignty (in a democratic European vote, Ireland’s voice will always be weak). A way around this, is largely seen by giving national parliaments an increased role in the European system of governance. Up until now, National Parliaments have a very limited role in European Affairs. Theoretically, parliaments should be strongly influential, as each national government is accountable to their... Similar posts

The Labour Party yesterday launched its YES to Lisbon campaign. In the words of Labour Party Leader, Eamon Gilmore TD, "The major challenges that Ireland now faces are increasingly global in nature, and so too are the solutions. Our membership of the European Union allows us to work with our fellow member states, to collectively confront the great challenges of our age. The Lisbon Treaty is designed to ensure that we do so more effectively." Eight Good Reasons to Vote Yes to the Lisbon Reform Treaty Joan Burton on why the Lisbon Treaty is good for women, good for Ireland and good for Europe. Eight Good Reasons to Vote Yes to the Lisbon Reform Treaty 1. Lisbon Promotes our Values: Article 2 states: "The EU is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy,... Similar posts