Government Presents Bill on Accession of Bulgaria and Romania to EU

“EUROPE DAY”, HAILED AS A UNIQUE DAY FOR OIREACHTAS -Treacy

The first step in Ireland's ratification of the Accession Treaty to allow Bulgaria and Romania to become members of the European Union, was debated in Dáil Eireann today as part of Europe Day which saw, for the first time, the entire Dáil schedule devoted to European issues.

Introducing the Second Stage of the European Communities Amendment Bill 2006, Minister of European Affairs, Mr. Noel Treacy, T.D., outlined the case for the further expansion of the EU to 27 Member States:

“Bulgaria and Romania are countries that suffered greatly as a consequence of Europe's past divisions.  It is completely fitting that they should become members of the European Union.  Their accession, which is scheduled for 1 January 2007, will complete the Union's post-Cold War enlargement.  This represents a huge historic achievement for Europe, one in which Ireland has played a proud role, especially during our 2004 Presidency.”  

Minister Treacy also summed up “Europe Day”, as “a unique day for the Oireachtas, as the focus of our parliament has for the first time been fixed entirely on Europe.  This is a reflection of the tremendous impact and importance of our membership of the European Union. In devoting a whole day to Europe, the Irish Parliament and people have made a significant contribution to the EU -wide period of reflection and clearly shown our deep commitment to the European project”, concluded Minister Treacy.
 
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10th May 06
Press Office

Notes for Editors

As well as the Second Stage of the European Communities Amendment Bill 2006, the Dáil also heard Statements on Migration, Agriculture (including a contribution form Commissioner Fischer Boel, the first EU Commissioner to address the House), Statements on EU Scrutiny and Statements on the Europe and the Developing World.