Collective Responsibility

With the end of the Lisbon Treaty referendum arriving yesterday, we must look ahead to the future of our country.

Many prominent Lisbon supporters were quick to voice their disappointment at the rejection of this treaty on Friday. Dermot Ahern highlighted his own concerns that Europe was now facing "uncharted waters". However, while our political future is unknown, our democratic system is certainly secure.

This security does not come from any specific referendum issue and is certainly not a result of the rejection of Lisbon. Instead, it comes from the democratic process we have in place. While we may not agree with the outcome of a vote, it is essential that we stand by our system and recognise that the voice of the electorate must be followed. It is a testament to this country that all political figures have already recognised and stressed the importance of this collective responsibility.

However, it is a shame that this praise cannot be extended to the European Union in general. Many prominent E.U. supporters have begun to vilify the Irish as anti-European and anti-reform. These are the same leaders who decided that Lisbon can only be accepted if ratified in all member states. Consequently, it is the duty of European leaders to recognise that collective responsibility must be practiced on an international level, not just a domestic one.

We have collectively rejected this treaty. We must now collectively decide on a way forward.

-The English Student

European Reform Treaty: Poster Campaign

As the vote on the European Reform Treaty approaches, both sides of the debate are increasing their canvassing campaign.

Most notably, the volume of posters to be found throughout the capital city has risen exponentially. While these posters mostly deal with the expected issues of an economic and environmental nature, there is a specific one that stands out. Apparently, should the treaty be accepted, we will be insulting the memory of those who "died for (our) freedom".

This is absolute rubbish. While one may mount an argument that our freedom was bought with blood, this is irrelevant to the referendum. The fact is, we have a free country and a democratic populace that has a right to vote in any way they choose. Do these groups honestly believe that the ghosts of past leaders will haunt us for exercising the same democratic rights that they fought for?

These scare tactics are a despicable attempt by liars and manipulators to take advantage of our national pride. If past fighters for sovereignty would have any problem with this referendum, I am positive it would be regarding this underhanded and downright appalling campaign strategy.

These issues will not affect my vote. They will, however, make me far more wary of people who are so willing to dupe and deceive the population.

-The English Student