PDs to explain European vision

The Progressive Democrats will unveil their vision for the future of Europe in Dublin today.

Tánaiste and party leader Michael McDowell will address the National Forum on Europe in the Westin Hotel on College Green at 11.30am.

Following the address, the debate will be opened up to the forum membership which includes all the political parties and key civil society organisations.

Established five years ago by a cross-party coalition, the forum is an arena for free debate on the European Union and Ireland’s role in it.

In its time it has held more than 70 plenary meetings, 60 regional meetings and conferences, and programmes geared to engage women and young people.

The session will be chaired by the National Forum On Europe chairman, Senator Maurice Hayes.

Labour Party leader Pat Rabbitte will outline his party’s vision of the future of Europe at the same event in Dublin Castle next Thursday.