Macra na Feirme calls for a ‘YES’ vote to Lisbon
03 September 2009
Macra na Feirme representing young farmers and rural youth, has called for a ‘YES’ vote on the Lisbon Treaty on 2nd October. The decision was formally taken by Macra’s national council this week.
Macra na Feirme National President, Michael Gowing, has said that it is incumbent upon all young people to take the time to examine the details of the proposed treaty and to exercise their vote.
In a recent survey of 500 young farmers conducted during August by Macra na Feirme 54% said they would vote yes in the upcoming referendum, 27% were undecided, only 11% said they would vote no while 8% said they would not vote in the upcoming referendum.
Mr. Gowing said he was very critical of many of the proponents for a ‘NO’ vote, who he said, were resorting to the scare tactics that were all too evident in the previous campaign on the treaty. For example, suggestions that the minimum wage would be reduced by the EU if Ireland voted ‘YES’ were without foundation.
Ireland’s youth have much to gain from Ireland’s full participation in the EU. Ireland has consistently exerted tremendous influence within the EU to the betterment of Irish and indeed EU citizens. The best way for Ireland to shape its future for the better is by being an active strong member of the EU.
He pointed out that the treaty is fundamentally about the positive reform of the institutions of the EU as well as a move to more democratic decision making. The powers of the European Parliament are to be enhanced, making the EU more accountable to its citizens.
The Lisbon treaty also proposes to make the EU a stronger, more effective voice on the world stage. This includes the establishment of a European Council President, he said
