Brexit and the future of Europe

A chara, – While hoping that our UK neighbours vote to remain in the European Union, the nature of the campaign and coverage of same are disappointing. The focus has been primarily on fear. This is exemplified by the front-page story about the introduction of border controls (May 30th). Some of these concerns are legitimate but the challenge for all of us who see the positive contribution and potential of the European Union is to set out a constructive vision of how all our lives can be improved through working together and about how Europe can be an effective balancing voice at a global level. The EU’s historic message of peace and prosperity should not only be one that justifies its existence but should inspire how Europe sees itself in the decades ahead. Campaigns based on fear may win in the short term, but the EU and its advocates must set out an imaginative long-term vision and engage all citizens, including those who feel marginalised from the EU, in achieving those goals. – Is mise,

Cllr MALCOLM BYRNE,

Gorey, Co Wexford.