SF launches campaign against Reform Treaty

Sinn Féin will today launch its first phase of the party’s campaign against the Lisbon Reform Treaty.

Campaigners plan to distribute half a million leaflets throughout the state and hold a series of regional meetings over the coming weeks.

Sinn Féin will also outline central points of debate contained within the Treaty, including democracy, militarism, public services EURATOM & the developing world.

Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin will chair the launch, with the campaign led by Senator Pearse Doherty, Aengus O Snodaigh TD, and Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald.

Meanwhile, the National Forum On Europe will begin hosting its series of public meetings around the country tonight with prominent guest speakers both for and against the Treaty.

The inaugural meeting will be held in Blanchardstown Public Library at 6.30pm with Ruairí Quinn, Chairman of the Alliance for Europe, campaigning for a 'Yes' vote in the referendum and Socialist Party leader, Joe Higgins, who is against the Treaty.

Other members of the National Forum On Europe, who represent all the political parties and leading national organisations, are expected to attend.

The event will kick off with a short introductory film on the Lisbon Treaty and copies of the Forum’s recently-launched Summary Guide to the Treaty will also be available.

The Forum’s independent chairman, Maurice Hayes, said a significant part of its work is to bring the debate on Europe to people in their own areas.

“What we are aiming at is for you, the people of West Dublin and the surrounding areas, to have your say and also to have a good dialogue or interaction with our speakers,” he added.