Madam, – Mr John Regan’s letter (July 22nd) sounds like a rally-cry against the Lisbon Treaty. But before anyone considers heeding his call, a number of points need to be clarified.
First, while he may be correct in describing the farmers as “restless”, the fact is that the IFA has publicly declared that it will support a Yes vote come October. Padraig Walshe on Tuesday reminded farmers that it was in their interests to accept Lisbon and urged them not to use their vote as a protest against the Government.
Second, the claim by the Irish Fishermen’s Organisation that €200 billion worth of fish has been taken out of Irish waters is greatly exaggerated. The true figure is closer to €8.5 billion. Mr Regan says it’s “hard to believe that Irish waters produce 40 per cent of the EU catch”. The reason that it’s hard to believe is because it’s not true. Approximately 8.5 per cent of the fist caught in the EU comes from Irish waters.
Third, Mr Regan states that Ireland is moving from being a net recipient to a net contributor. In fact, this is not due to happen for some time yet. He then concludes by saying that for “economic reasons alone, I’ll be voting No.” This makes no sense. Ireland’s economy stands to gain, not lose, from being at the heart of Europe.
By rejecting the treaty, we would do untold damage to Ireland’s reputation as an attractive destination for investment and trade. By voting Yes, we would send a clear message that Ireland Inc is still open for business. – Yours, etc,