Ireland most positive EU country

The Minister of State for European Affairs Noel Treacy T.D. today welcomed Ireland's position as the most positive EU country in (i) support for the Union, (ii) perceived benefits of membership, and (iii) positive image of the EU, as revealed in today's Eurobarometer survey.     

Minister Treacy said:

“This testifies to the success of the government in fostering a more engaged debate among the public about European issues.  Particular credit is also due to the tremendous work of the National Forum on Europe, and to the Oireachtas which has been increasingly involved in European affairs, including the holding of its innovative EU day in May. 

“The results highlight again how well the Irish public in particular appreciates the benefits of the European Union.  This is underpinned by the ongoing success of our economy and consistently very low unemployment rates.

“The key to future success for the Union lies in continuing to deliver tangible benefits for the European public”.

Note to editors

The research for the poll was carried out between 27 March (30 March in Ireland) and 1 May of this year.  The European Union has been undertaking a period of reflection following the No votes on the Constitution in France and Netherlands last year.  The European Council recently extended that period of reflection until 2007.  In Ireland, the Government, Oireachtas and the National Forum have been playing leading roles in stimulating debate on European issues during this period.

The survey is published at

http://ec.europa.eu/public_opinion/index_en.htm

ENDS +++

6^th July 2006

Press Office