A new website dedicated to the Reform Treaty, adoption of which by Ireland is up for referendum next year, has gone online.
The site, www.reformtreaty.ie, is part of the Government’s campaign to inform the public about the treaty.
“The Reform Treaty is an important achievement for the EU and its ratification is a priority for the Government,” said Minister for Foreign Affairs Dermot Ahern TD.
“I welcome the fact that detailed information on the Reform Treaty is available on the website and I urge everyone to access it. It is important to increase awareness and understanding of its contents.”
The Reform Treaty is designed to make the EU function more effectively and democratically in response to the needs of an enlarged union. It draws much of its substance from the European Constitution, which failed to be ratified in 2004, but takes the form of a series of amendments to the existing European treaties.
The Reform Treaty was formally signed by all 27 member states yesterday and needs to be ratified by them. Irish law necessitates that a public referendum be held to decide whether it is ratified or not.
Minister for European Affairs Dick Roche TD commented: “I look forward to playing an active role in informing the public about this important treaty. The Irish public has traditionally shown strong support for the EU and I firmly believe that next year’s referendum will affirm Ireland’s place at the heart of the EU.
“This website will provide the public with information on all aspects of the treaty and is intended to facilitate an informed and balanced debate about a treaty that is important for Europe and Ireland,” he added.
By Niall Byrne
