MARTIN MORRIS,
Sir, - As we approach the second referendum on the Nice Treaty, one of the most worrying developments is the introduction of the issue of immigration into the debate by Mr Justin Barrett, with the support of Mr Anthony Coughlan.
To state, as they have done, that it is likely the ratification of the treaty will result in an influx of immigrants from Central and Eastern European states on the verge of accession is utterly irresponsible and liable to appeal to the racist sentiments of a section of the electorate.
A corollary of our membership of the EU has always been the free movement of labour. In addition, have those two gentlemen not noticed that tens of thousands of workers - many from the countries in question - have arrived here over the year of the "Celtic Tiger" to take jobs for which natives were unavailable?
As someone who voted against the treaty last year, and will do so again, I would prefer to see the anti-Nice campaign concentrating on the lack of clear democratic accountability in the EU and the fact that the treaty will reduce Ireland's position within the Union.
Furthermore, I would like people such as Messrs Barrett and Coughlan to ask Mr Ó Cuiv to clarify his remarks, made in an interview on radio following last year's referendum, which included reference to his experience of the arrogance of EU officials who believed that it was they who had the right to make decisions, and not the Ministers. Indeed, the fact that we are being forced into another referendum is a clear indication of the disregard for the democratic decision made here last year.
I wish to see the Nice Treaty defeated again, but for the right reasons and after rational debate. The poster campaign of Mr Barrett's organisation was credited in large measure with securing the victory of the No side on the last occasion. Obviously, posters allow for catchy and emotive slogans.
One can only hope that the voters will fail to be persuaded by catchy and emotive arguments which are actually sinister in their intent. - Yours, etc.,
MARTIN MORRIS,
Drumming,
Ardagh,
Co Longford.