The majority of small businesses believe a Yes vote in the Lisbon Treaty is vital to boost exports across the EU, the Small Firms Association said today.
A new survey revealed almost eight out of ten bosses felt rejecting the treaty would impact on Ireland's ability to attract foreign investment.
The SFA claimed accepting the Treaty was a vote for investment, jobs and the economy.
SFA chairman Dr Aidan O'Boyle, said: "Ireland must be at the centre of Europe, not just for the opportunities it has given us in the past, but the many opportunities it will give us in the future."
A total of 684 companies, employing 13,768 people, across manufacturing, distribution, retail and services sectors were quizzed. It showed 78 per cent believe that membership of the EU has been important for the success of Irish business and 74 per cent believe that a second rejection of the Treaty would have a very negative impact on small businesses and on jobs.
Dr O'Boyle said the SFA was urging voters to say Yes in the October 2nd referendum given the difficult current trading conditions.
"As a nation we are facing many challenges," continued Dr O'Boyle. "By giving support to Europe we are recognising that some of the most critical challenges facing us can only be addressed at a global level - these are challenges which Ireland cannot face on our own, such as climate change, energy security, international trade, as well as fighting international crime and terrorism.
"The unique achievement of the EU has been to devise a system that respects all countries, but ensures the job gets done," he added.
PA