All Households To Get Government Guide To The E.U. Reform Treaty

"I very much welcome the distribution of the Government's summary guide to the Reform Treaty which has now commenced across the country.  In the coming weeks, every household should have received its copy of the guide," said Minister for Foreign Affairs Dermot Ahern, T.D.

"This 48-page guide, in Irish and English, provides the key information on the Reform Treaty, in a clear and factual manner.  It explains the changes being made to the EU Treaties so as to enhance the efficiency and democratic legitimacy of the European Union.

"The distribution of this guide is part of the Government's efforts to ensure that the public are as well informed as possible regarding the content of the Treaty, which will be the subject of a referendum in June. 

"In addition to this guide, the Government has published a White Paper, explaining the Treaty's content in more detail. 

"Earlier this week, the European Union published the consolidated version of the EU Treaties, incorporating the changes to be made by the Reform Treaty, once ratified. That document shows exactly how the Reform Treaty will amend the existing Treaties.  It shows the legal framework that will apply if the Reform Treaty is ratified by all Member States.

"All these documents and more are available on the Government's dedicated Reform Treaty website (www.reformtreaty.ie).  They are also available in libraries, citizen information centres, universities and local authorities across the country.  In addition, they are available free of charge from the Department of Foreign Affairs to anyone who calls, writes or emails requesting them.

"In the coming weeks, the Government aims to facilitate the best informed public debate for any referendum in our history. 

"I am confident that when people are informed about this Treaty, they will dismiss the myths being promoted by Treaty opponents and give a resounding Yes on polling day.  A reading of the Government guide will confirm that there is nothing to fear and much to gain from ratifying a Treaty whose provisions are firmly in Ireland's and in Europe's interests," the Minister concluded.