EU applicants want us to give them a break from the past
The applicant states accept that the Nice Treaty referendum is a matter for the Irish people alone, but it is clear also that they view it as the international mechanism that will ensure EU enlargement can take place in 2004. These countries see the historic importance of the ratification of the treaty, and their hopes and aspirations should resonate very strongly with Irish people.
These countries believe that Ireland’s experience is proof that the EU is a success story. By voting ‘yes’ we have an opportunity to help in the healing of the divisions in Europe which brought so much pain and suffering to so many of these countries, as well as to strengthen peace and security throughout our continent. We have a proud tradition as a peacekeeping nation. Let us extend that tradition across Europe by voting ‘yes’.
