Lisbon outcome historic, but priority now removal of FF govt
Issued : Sunday 4 October, 2009
Statement by Joe Costello TD
Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade with responsibility for Trade and Development
The outcome of the referendum on the Lisbon Reform Treaty marks an historic point for Ireland the EU. The emphatic nature of the yes vote in Friday's poll was particularly gratifying.
The referendum result will now allow the final stages of the ratification to be completed. When the Treaty comes into effect, it will not only lead to a more democratic and efficient Europe it will also allow citizens in Ireland and throughout the rest of the EU to benefit from the provisions of the Charter of Fundamental Rights.
As my party's Campaign Director for the referendum campaign, I want to thank the Labour Party members for their Trojan efforts over recent weeks to ensure a victory. The Labour Party put the national interest first and resisted any temptation to play party politics with an issue of such profound national importance.
However, now that the referendum campaign is over, this Fianna Fail government can expect no mercy from the Labour Party. The country voted for Lisbon not because of Brian Cowen and Fianna Fail, but despite Brian Cowen and Fianna Fail. Over the coming weeks we will be redoubling our efforts to get Fianna Fail out, to bring about a change of government and to give the country to new start it needs.
