Great result for ‘lulas’ and other ‘extremists’

FRIDAY the 13th proved to be a very lucky day for the Irish, for the 99.3% of Europe denied a vote and also a great day for democracy in general.

While elated with the rejection of the Lisbon Treaty, I was shocked to discover there was such a substantial bloc of “lulas” and “extremists” in this country, to quote the words of two former Taoisigh describing those who might have the audacity to reject their advice.

Clearly a sophisticated electorate were not impressed by the bullyboy tactics, name-calling and arrogance of the establishment that also characterised the two previous referenda on Nice.

Hopefully, the wishes of the much-derided plain people of Ireland will be respected this time round.

Unfortunately, a massive spending splurge, spindoctored platitudes and pre-election profiling became a poor substitute for clear information and genuine debate.

However, I don’t believe for a minute this was a Eurosceptic or anti-Europe vote, but rather an expression of genuine concern with the direction in which the whole European project is heading.

I’m sure this view would be shared by many throughout the continent denied the franchise.

Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin

An Pháilís

Guaire

Co Loch Garman