THE Government was yesterday urged to lead a more public debate and define its own position on the new EU constitution being negotiated, under Ireland's presidency, in the EU Inter Governmental Conference.
The Conference of Religious of Ireland said key questions concerning Europe's future were being addressed but most EU citizens were excluded from discussions.
CORI has called for a public debate on EU political structure, economic and social cohesion, social policy and foreign policy.
In a 14 page briefing document, CORI said the IGC should develop more democratic structures.
It warned that, if some suggestions were accepted, the EU would become "one of the most undemocratic bodies in the Western world".
On the objective of economic and social cohesion, CORI proposes the IGC give greater priority to developing cohesion between and within different regions; develop more realistic mechanisms for dealing effectively with "regional shocks"; and include both these issues in concrete commitments within the text of the new treaty.
Under social policy, CORI wants the IGC to focus on the development of a comprehensive statement on human rights and discrimination. This should include issues such as racism and xenophobia.