Fears that the new EU constitution will lead to a federal super state of Europe were expressed at the National Forum on Europe in Dublin yesterday.
Members of the public, interest groups and organisations had the chance to give their views on the proposed constitution which will be put to the vote in a referendum.
Dick Humphreys, a member of the public, said the constitution was a recipe for a federal state of Europe. "This proposed constitution does look like a foundation stone for a European federal super state," he said.
This was disputed by forum member, Senator Paschal Mooney, who said the European concept had been an outstanding success. He said nothing could be changed without a unanimous vote of member states.
"So there is scare-mongering in much of what you say," Mr Mooney said. Mr Humphreys replied that he was fundamentally in favour of the European concept which had brought about peace but people were not being told about the final destination.
Lelia O'Flaherty also said Europe was going towards the establishment of a federal super state. She said when people voted No on the first Nice treaty, the Government set about having a second one when the democratic vote was against it.
Labour Party Cllr Niamh Bhreathnach, forum member, said the second Nice treaty was produced after it was realised the public did not have sufficient information.
Sean Regan, of the Community Workers Co-operative, said he had concerns on whether the constitution advanced the ability of EU institutions to tackle poverty and social exclusion.
David Joynt said he had concerns from a non-political Christian standpoint. There was no mention of God or Christianity. The constitution was vague. It would be the basis for loss of control and be a federation of states dominated by the most powerful.
Prof Noel Mulcahy, forum member, responded that there were checks for national parliaments to see if the EU constitution agreed with the national constitution.
Roger Cole, of the Peace and Neutrality Alliance, said they would campaign for a No vote on military and defence issues.
The Church of Ireland Synod, the National Youth Council of Ireland and the European Anti-Poverty Network advocated the need to ensure their members were empowered and guaranteed a role in the constitution.