“The pastoral is a thoughtful and reflective document that once again confirms that all people of faith should see the European Union as a force for good in the world,” said Minister Killeen.
He added, “It is a sad part of our referendums that groups appear, which try to take particular issues of sincere concern to ordinary people and to try and claim that the E.U. wants to destroy our laws. One shadowy and cynical group has even distributed leaflets throughout the country claiming that the Treaty was opening the door to legalised prostitution, euthanasia, abortion and hard drugs.”
The Clare T.D. said that he particularly welcomed the decision of the bishops to ‘condemn unreservedly those who would seek to influence the outcome of the referendum either by offering misleading or even patently incorrect advice or by introducing extraneous factors into the debate’.
He said that the Bishops had shown a clear understanding of the motivation, which provides the essential foundation for the Treaty, and the operations of the European Union.
“Having analysed the detail of the workings of the E.U. and the challenges it faces, the bishops have said “If we are to avoid institutional gridlock, the EU must implement improved methods of decision making – it cannot continue ‘business as usual. In addition, the Treaty of Lisbon is prompted by the need for institutional reform that will equip the EU to continue to play a positive role in a rapidly changing world.’ The importance of this issue is highlighted by the increasing impact of globalisation on all areas of economic life”, explained Minister Killeen.
The Junior Agriculture Minister stated, “These are generous and clear words, which should help all people to put aside the wilder arguments of recent weeks and focus on the essence of a Treaty which is good for Ireland and good for Europe as a whole.”
Minister Killeen commented, “The call of the bishops on all citizens to exercise their franchise on June 12th reminds us all that we are free citizens of a democratic republic and we should use our vote when an election or referendum is held.”
“The European Union seeks to be a force for peace and prosperity. This thoughtful and reflective pastoral will assist people to put aside misleading and extraneous arguments and focus on the core issues in this referendum”, Minister Killeen concluded.
-ENDS-
Notes to Editor:
- Tony Killeen T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (with special responsibility for Fisheries and Forestry), is available for interview and further comment on 0035387-2525304. Alternatively please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy Public Relations on 00353868534900 or media@dunphypr.com
- High-resolution images of Minister Killeen are available on request
Mark Dunphy
Dunphy Public Relations
www.dunphypr.com
00353-868534900 (mobile)
00353-656839692 (fax)