Lisbon guarantees - Should dispel genuine fears

The Irish Examiner has managed to get a copy of the guarantees that our European partners are considering for Ireland in relation to the Lisbon treaty.

These contain detailed assurances that the treaty does not in any way infringe on Irish constitutional provisions in relation to the right to life, protection of the family, or the protection of education in this country.

There are also further guarantees on taxation, social matters and defence.

If accepted by the summit, the guarantees would stipulate “the Lisbon treaty does not affect or prejudice Ireland’s traditional policy of military neutrality”. There would be further assurances that any move towards “a common defence will require a unanimous decision of the European Council”.

These assurances should dispel the legitimate fears raised by opponents of the treaty on such matters.

The assurances stipulate the treaty does not make a provision for the creation of a European army or for conscription into any military force. The guarantees are due to be submitted to EU leaders on Thursday.

If adopted, the assurances will be part of the summit conclusions and would thus have virtual treaty status.