Madam, – Joe Higgins’s opinion that the Lisbon Treaty poses an “attack on the ability of the European people to exercise democratic control” is not only incorrect, but is a classic example of the turkey voting for Christmas (August 24th).
One of the main changes of the Lisbon Treaty is that the number of decisions which are made with the input of the European Parliament will increase. Issues such as agricultural policy, trade and the EU budget will become more subject to democratic accountability, as represented by the European Parliament delegates from 27 countries.
So if Mr Higgins gets his wish and the treaty is not passed, he and his fellow MEPs will have less control over decisions made by the European Commission and Council. Whether the EU advances a neo-liberal agenda is another matter entirely, but Mr Higgins should not confuse this with more direct democracy. – Yours, etc,
Madam, – Tony Kinsella’s hysterical opinion piece (August 24th) is typical of the vicious screeds that have emanated from the Yes side since the majority of us rejected the Constitution/ Lisbon Treaty.
If Mr Kinsella or anyone else on the Yes side wants to change our minds perhaps they could practise what they preach and advance arguments as to how the Constitution/Lisbon Treaty makes for a better future for Ireland. I have yet to hear any credible arguments advanced, backed up by reference to the treaty, as to why we should vote Yes, beyond vague generalities. Whatever Mr Kinsella might think, comparing No voters to the Lockerbie bombers is insulting and offensive and will reinforce this voter’s determination to again vote No. – Yours, etc,
Madam, – A propaganda leaflet accompanied by a picture of the Blessed Virgin was handed to me last Sunday at a church gate in Co Mayo, by an anti-Lisbon campaigner. The inclusion of the holy picture is brainwashing of an insidious kind.
One would think that the recent Ryan report on child-abuse, the banking scandals and the many tribunals of inquiry into corruption would inspire a little humility in us; and even suggest that Europe is in more danger of being morally contaminated by the Irish than vice-versa. – Yours, etc,