Self-interest is the deciding factor

I WELCOME the fact that the Lisbon Treaty will make the EU more streamlined, more transparent and more democratic.

However, I’d be lying if I said these issues set my pulse racing.

I suspect I am not alone in this.

While these reforms are admirable, they are not the reason I will be voting yes come October.

My motivation is based on pure self-interest. I am voting for Lisbon because it will help improve the Irish economy thereby benefiting me and my family.

Were Lisbon to be rejected, I have no doubt this would do untold damage to our prospects of attracting investment and creating employment here.

Let’s be honest, it’s about jobs, jobs, jobs. Anything else is just a bonus. In the famous slogan from the Clinton years, “it’s the economy, stupid”.

Pauline Byrne

Stanford Green

Walkinstown

Dublin 12