Leading Ireland into Europe was Lynch's greatest legacy, says Cowen

JACK LYNCH'S vision for Ireland involved embracing the European ideal, and as a nation we would do well to contemplate the consequences of opting out of Europe, Taoiseach Brian Cowen declared last night.

Mr Cowen said that the late former taoiseach's greatest legacy was his skill in leading Ireland into the European Economic Community (EEC) and safely through the outbreak of the Troubles in Northern Ireland and he would well be remembered for his assured handling of both issues.

Delivering the opening address at a two-day conference organised by the Department of History at University College Cork on Lynch's legacy, Mr Cowen pointed out that Lynch was the prime mover behind Ireland joining the EEC.

"Lynch had the vision to see beyond a narrow 'little Irelander, ourselves alone' ideology. He knew the quest for national self-determination in Ireland has always been about taking our place among the nations, not standing separate from them," he said.

"It was the right decision for our country. It was a great vote of confidence in our ability to make our way and to move beyond the shadow of our nearest neighbour. It set this country firmly on a new pathway to progress and prosperity.

Turning to Ireland's present relation with the European Union in the wake of the defeat of the Lisbon Treaty last May, Mr Cowen said that Ireland should remember that an isolationist approach will hinder rather than assist further development and progress.

"In the world in which we live today, we would do well to remember that opting out has its consequences, it weakens rather than strengthens our prospects.

"This country cannot afford to turn its back on closer co-operation with like-minded countries on critical international issues such as developing trade links that foster jobs at home and obtain opportunities for us abroad, protecting the environment, tackling climate change, dealing with international crime networks, drugs cartels, and dealing with migration and ensuring the security of vital energy supplies in the years ahead," he said.

Mr Cowen said that Ireland needs to restore that sense of ambition and confidence in our ability as a nation, articulated by Lynch, as we review our relationship in Europe after the Lisbon vote.

"I happen to believe that Jack Lynch's vision of Ireland in Europe has been vindicated. EU membership has enabled us to make huge economic and social strides. We have embraced our European heritage in a productive manner.

"Irish people clearly want us to remain at the heart of the European Union and it is important that we do so. That is the challenge facing today's generation," said Mr Cowen.

Turning to Lynch's handling of the Northern Troubles, Mr Cowen said that he exhibited the same philosophy of patience, tact and goodwill adopted by his predecessor, Seán Lemass and it too had stood Ireland in good stead.

Last night's address in the Aula Maxima at UCC was attended by Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin and Minister for Education Batt O'Keeffe as well as Mr Lynch's colleague in Cabinet and founder of the Progressive Democrats, Dessie O'Malley as well as members of the Lynch family.

The conference continues today