EU still the way ahead, insists Ahern

The European Union is still the best way forward for Ireland despite its imperfections, frustrations and jargon, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said tonight.

In a speech to mark Europe Day, he called for the revival of the European Constitution, which has been rejected by French and Dutch voters, and an acknowledgement of the positive work done by the EU.

“The European Union is very far from perfect. I know that better than most. For many years I have had to deal with its imperfections, its frustration and its jargon.

"But there is no part of the world in which we could be more fortunate to live.”

Mr Ahern told a crowd at Dublin City Hall that the EU was a force for peace, a promoter of human rights and a defender of the environment.

“It continues to expand its membership to embrace a growing family of democratic nations in a world where the frontiers of democracy risk being rolled back.”

He re-iterated his belief in the importance of the stalled European Constitution, which he was involved in negotiating during the Irish EU presidency.

“The European Constitution is the right choice for Europe. It is the right choice for Ireland.”

The Dáil will devote a full day of its business to European issues tomorrow to celebrate Europe Day and the European Commission Representation in Ireland will be hosting a lunchtime cultural street party on South King Street in Dublin, with up to 20 European countries showcasing their traditions, culture and food.

The commission is also sending its information team on an EU bus, which will be travelling the streets of Dublin, stopping in key locations in the city centre to give out useful EU information.