POLITICAL REACTION:IRELAND WAS now leading Europe as a result of its "very mature and informed decision" to support the Lisbon Treaty, Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny has said.
“Through this decisive result, Ireland has strengthened its place at the heart of the European family. In fact, today Ireland leads Europe. This is a very mature and informed decision. I am delighted that the vast majority of people voted on the issue at hand in spite of the efforts of some to distract them.”
He was “very proud” of the work of the Fine Gael party. In particular, he thanked campaign director Billy Timmins and his deputy Lucinda Creighton for “their huge efforts”.
“I hope that this result will pave the way for the completion of the ratification process so that the Lisbon reforms can come into effect as soon as possible. In that context, it is important that the Government puts forward a nominee for the European Commission without delay,” Mr Kenny said.
Labour leader Eamon Gilmore said: “This is an important development that will enable Europe to function more efficiently and democratically; improve the rights of citizens, workers and consumers through the Charter of Fundamental Rights; and help restore international confidence in Ireland so that jobs and businesses can be secured here.
“Labour campaigned so strongly for a Yes vote because we believed that ratification was in the national interest. The national interest now requires that this Fianna Fáil Government is removed from office as quickly as possible.”
Green Party leader and Minister for the Environment John Gormley said the result “removes any uncertainty about Ireland’s relationship with the European Union: we are committed and progressive members, and we will continue to occupy a key role in the EU”. The party’s campaign director Senator Déirdre de Búrca added: “In our campaign, we concentrated on promoting positive aspects of the treaty, especially the articles related to energy security, climate change and enhanced democracy, and the Charter of Fundamental Rights.”