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Norris To Support Yes on Lisbon
29 September 2009
Senator David Norris said today
This time the issues are more finely balanced. Because of the determination of those of us in the No camp, we have secured a number of important advances including retention of our Commissioner, preservation of our independent tax regime and now at last I have personally received from the Government the assurance on military matters that I required.
Many Irish people have been honestly concerned about our position within the EU especially in the light of a possible rejection of the Treaty. There is no question whatever that Ireland could be forced out of the EU or have her membership downgraded on foot of a No vote. However it is true that the EU machine is lubricated by good will and that this good will has been very positively and skilfully fostered by our diplomats and representatives. To risk this good will turning to ill will that might subtly prejudice Ireland’s position would be a foolish step to take without very serious practical reasons.
After dialogue in recent weeks with Minister Micheál Martin and the Department of Foreign Affairs I have received the attached statement of Government policy which permits me to vote yes myself and recommend that my supporters should carefully consider doing so themselves. The most important elements of this communication from government are contained in the first and final paragraph where the Minister says:
1. “I am happy to give you the reassurance you request regarding Ireland’s position on an EU munitions industry. We would have no interest in supporting any efforts to develop a European munitions industry for export. The Lisbon Treaty does not contemplate any such policy initiative or make any provision for movement in that direction. Ireland would indeed resist any pressure which might be exercised in future by any Member State to take the Union down such a route, which would, of course, require a unanimous decision in the unlikely event that any such move were ever to be contemplated at EU level.
2. “On another matter in which I know you take an interest, I would like to assure you that the promotion and protection of human rights – including those of children and women affected by armed conflict – are integrated fully into the planning and conduct of the EU’s civilian and military missions. An outstanding example is the mission in Chad, which throughout its mandate made a real contribution to protecting civilians in danger, in particular refugees and displaced persons affected by the crisis in neighbouring Darfur. The mission’s patrols deterred attacks against the civilian population, facilitated the activities of humanitarian workers and also contributed to protecting the staff of the UN and humanitarian organisations. Support for human rights in areas of armed conflict is an important part of the Government’s overall approach to human rights, peace-building and development issues.”
I am returning today from the Middle East in order to take part in the final stages of the debate and to vote Yes to Lisbon.
Senator David Norris
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