Cowen welcomes result

Today the Irish people have spoken with a clear and resounding voice. This is a good day for Ireland and a good day for Europe.

Today we have said to the other countries of Europe that we stand with them as we seek to move forward together. We do this because we know that we are better together and stronger together.

We will now work with all our partners in ensuring that the reforms this treaty will bring are implemented.  The Irish people have supported reforms so that the EU can become more efficient and more effective in dealing with the global problems we all face. Challenges such as climate change, energy, international crime and of course the economic difficulties in which we find ourselves now. This is what the European union is all about – States
working together to achieve the common good.

Today, we have done the right thing for our own future and the future of our children. We have taken another step on a journey that began 36 years ago when we first joined Europe.  A journey that has strengthened and deepened our relationship with our neighbouring nations – their people and their cultures.

I want to recognise and thank all those who contributed to this resounding Yes vote, beginning with the other parties in the Dail who stood with us in this campaign. You have put the nation ahead of party politics and I thank you for that.

I want to thank the members of my party and of my partners in Government who supported the Treaty’s passage by knocking on doors and doing the hard work of canvassing.  Your neighbours could see and hear from you how important it was for Ireland to vote “Yes”, and your effort was a decisive factor in this victory.

I want to recognise and thank the civil society groups who campaigned so hard.  Business, trade unions and community leaders from all walks of life played their part in helping to pass this referendum. Your powerful voice and passionate support helped convince the Irish people that much was at stake in this referendum.

While the campaign during the last month was very important, this result marks the culmination of a 15 month process.  After last year’s vote I was determined to ensure that the people of Ireland received a comprehensive response to their concerns.  I want to recognise the great work of those who helped secured the guarantees that dealt with these concerns.

When I wrote to my colleagues in the 26 other member states that a strong and comprehensive response to the Irish people was required before we could have another referendum they responded positively.  They listened to the people of Ireland and acted in the spirit of partnership and mutual respect that defines the European Union. That helped us to secure the vital guarantees that made today’s victory possible.

But on this day, the full and final credit for this victory rests with the Irish people. They showed an Ireland embracing her future in Europe. Ireland is ready to grow and to prosper.  Today’s vote will help us achieve a common aim – a prosperous, productive and forward looking Ireland.  We will now apply ourselves to achieving this with imagination, determination and courage.

The European Union is shaped by its peoples and nations to serve its peoples and nations.  Today’s vote is a declaration of intent by the people of Ireland to remain at the heart of Europe, where our future belongs.