Greater EU protection of rights sought

IRISH people appear to have little faith in the Government to protect fundamental rights, including those of children, and want greater EU involvement.

They also want the EU to be more active in areas Ireland tends to opt out of such as immigration policy.

The EU is reviewing its policies on justice, freedom and security and plans to draw up new priorities with the help of contributions from 27,000 citizens, including a survey.

The fight against organised crime, terrorism and drug abuse was the main concern for EU citizens overall. But in Ireland fundamental rights and those of children was the primary issue, together with the fight against drugs, for 90% of respondents.

Almost 80% of people said they believed it would be better if the EU were involved with the government in promoting and protecting such rights.

The government agreed after some dithering to sign up to the EU’s Charter for Fundamental Rights that sets out clear principles on children’s rights that would apply to all EU law if the Lisbon Treaty is passed.

The survey also showed that Irish people were the most anxious to have the EU involved in improving access to justice for people.

The Government opted out of legislation guaranteeing equal rights for workers from outside the EU. It also opted out of law that would sanction employers who hire illegal immigrants to work.

The Government has also chosen to opt out of police and judicial co-operation in criminal matters under the Lisbon Treaty.