Subtleties have begun to emerge in the Lisbon Treaty debate, as the race to persuade voters speeds up in the lead-in to the referendum.

Galway West TD Michael D Higgins.

Galway West TD Michael D Higgins has called for a "critical yes" vote from left-wing voters in the upcoming referendum.

Although the Labour Party joins the other Dáil political parties in supporting the Treaty, Deputy Higgins believes that there are some issues with the Treaty, saying it is "not perfect", and saying the aftermath would require the resolution of some "huge issues".

He said: "All those who follow in the footsteps of Connolly, believing in internationalist solidarity among workers, should vote 'yes'. All those who believe Europe should be a champion for rights and of equality, justice, peace and recognition of the value of work, should vote 'yes'. All those who aspire to bequeath a Europe our children can respect should vote 'yes'.

"The Lisbon Treaty is not perfect, but it does mark a major step forward in the inclusion of the Charter of Fundamental Rights and makes a start in the intergenerational struggle for social justice. The Charter of Fundamental Rights is a major weapon in the battle against empty, self-serving and economically illiterate notions that the market should serve no moral or social purpose," he added.

Meanwhile, Tuam-based interest group Libertas has been vigorously campaigning against the Treaty, stating the 'yes' campaign has "changed its tune on foreign interference" in recent weeks.

Founder Declan Ganley has said "somebody should really take the time to ask the 'Yes' campaign why it is that foreign interference was such a terrible idea in December, but is to be openly welcomed now."

The group has been criticised for misquoting EU commissioner Margot Wallstrom as saying the Treaty would cause a loss of democracy in a statement issued last week.

Comments (0) »

Show/Hide comment form

Name

Email

Title

Comment

Write the displayed characters

Add Comment