LOCAL Fianna Fail TDs Dr Rory O Hanlon and Margaret Conlon advocated a yes vote for the Lisbon Treaty in Monaghan this week.

Deputy O Hanlon explained that the Lisbon treaty’s main purpose is to make the European Union more manageable. Deputy O Hanlon also rebutted the No Campaign and assured the people of Monaghan that Ireland will retain its individuality.

“Our neutrality is completely protected in this treaty, as it has been in every other treaty since we joined the EEC in 1973. The same applies to socio-moral issues, such as abortion, in which regard we have total control of our own destiny. The treaty will give more power to our own parliament in terms of input into policy and preparation of legislation.”

Those present were also reminded of the economic benefits the EU has provided

“Ireland has benefited both economically and politically from the European Union. The greatest benefit economically is our membership of a market of 480 million people, which not only has been an advantage to farmers and the agricultural economy in general but has also made us attractive for foreign direct investment. The number of people working in Ireland has doubled since our accession to the European Union.”

“In the agricultural sector, as the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food has pointed out, €41 billion has been paid through the Common Agricultural Policy to date and a further €12 billion will be paid between now and 2013. Furthermore, Structural Funds and regional funds have totalled €17 billion. Therefore, we have greatly benefited as a nation,”

Deputy O Hanlon concluded.

Deputy Conlon believes the treaty will focus the EU and allow it to tackle the big issues all Europeans must now face, like climate change, cross-border crime and mass migration.

“Crucially, this treaty ensures that key national interests are protected for Irish jobs and for the Irish economy. Our ability to set our own tax policy is guaranteed. Voting No to the Lisbon Treaty will create an uncertainty for business. We cannot afford to have Ireland marginalised. Ireland is the economic success story of Europe and this Treaty will allow us to continue this,”

Deputy Conlon concluded.