Denying the reality

HAS Minister Micheál Martin not read the Lisbon Treaty? Contrary to his assertions, my article (September 29) was accurate and based on a careful study of the treaty.

The minister denies two factual statements I made. His denials do not stand up.

The only reason we need to have a referendum is because there is a transfer of power from the Irish people. If there was no transfer of power, the Government would not need the permission of the people to ratify the treaty.

The second fact denied by the minister is that Lisbon creates a new European Union. That is precisely what the treaty does. It is there in black and white in the treaty. This is the reality. It may not suit politicians on the Yes side to face up to reality for obvious reasons, but the minister should deal with the reality rather than denying it.

Joe Noonan

Noonan Linehan Carroll Coffey Solicitors

54 North Main Street

Cork