We should go ahead with the referendum

I STRONGLY disagree with Deputy John Gormley’s belief that “the Greens were right when they said that proceeding with a referendum after the comprehensive No votes in France and Holland was a pointless exercise”.

At no point has my party voted on such a motion, and Mr Gormley is speaking solely as a Green TD. This should be more clearly reflected in the media coverage.

There is a considerable body within my party that believes denying the right of the Irish electorate to give their verdict on the proposed European constitution treaty is undemocratic and flies in the face of our belief in consulting with the electorate.

If Mr Gormley is right and the treaty does have to be renegotiated, the Government should be aware of the voters’ attitude so that they are truly able to represent the country.

A referendum would allow for a healthy debate on Ireland’s role in the EU and to give our opinion on its future - something that is needed now more then ever.

Andrew Murphy

Galway West Greens

Knocknacarra Road

Galway