Minister of State for European Affairs addresses the launch of theEuropean Movement’s 2006 Strategy

In his address, the Minister welcomed the re-launch of the European Movement onto the Irish public stage and spoke of the importance of its work in explaining Europe to the Irish public which is of particular relevance during the current, EU-wide period of reflection about the future of Europe.  Minister Treacy also welcomed the Movement's partnership with the European Youth Parliament.

At the launch, the Minister said:

“There is a clear need for the public to gain a firmer appreciation of what the EU does, how it does it, and why it remains important.  I am confident that the increased funding which is being provided by the Government this year will enable the European Movement to make a significant impact in raising people's awareness of the European Union.”

Looking to the year ahead, the Minister restated the Government's firm view that the EU Constitution, which was agreed during Ireland's EU Presidency, remains the best available response to many of the challenges facing the EU.

Note for the Editor:

The European Movement is an independent voluntary membership organisation, which exists to promote the economic, political and social development of Europe and Ireland's place in Europe.

In the “Estimates” published in November 2005 the Minister for Foreign Affairs announced an increase in Government funding to the European Movement. The funding available, which remained at € 127,000 for a number of years has been increased to €252,000 in 2006.

END+++

17 January 2006