There can be no EU opt out on human rights - Doolan
Published: 28 June, 2007
Speaking today at the National Forum on the Future of Europe, Sinn Féin's
Dublin Spokesperson on European Affairs Cllr. Daithí Doolan has challenged
the Irish government to stop attempting to opt of their commitment to the EU
Rights Charter contained within the Reformed Treaty.
Speaking from Dublin Castle Cllr. Doolan said:
"There can be no EU opt out on human rights. The rights of the Irish people
are not to be bargained away by the Taoiseach. It is totally unacceptable to
Sinn Féin that the Taoiseach is attempting to negotiate an opt-out clause of
the Charter of Fundamental Rights contained within the controversial
Reformed Treaty. The Rights Charter is the only progressive element of this
Treaty and it is disgrace that the Taoiseach wants to dump it.
"The opt-out clause will have serious consequences for the rights of Irish
citizens, particularly the trade union movement as opting out of the Charter
will remove workers right to strike. This is brought into focus with the
recent industrial action taken by the Irish Nurses Organisation and
Psychiatric Nurses Association. The Taoiseach's actions can only be seen as
a cynical anti-union strategy in preparation for what he has termed the
economic slow down."
Cllr. Doolan continued
"This news comes as we gather today to debate a Social Model for Europe.
Sinn Féin's wants to work with others in developing a Social Model to meet
the demands of people in a 21st Century Europe. Our vision of that model is
based on the promotion of human rights, solidarity, conflict resolution and
an economy servicing the people and their needs. Currently what is on offer
is a repackaged EU Constitution promoting militarism, unbridled free market
capatalism and self interest."
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