Statement by Campaign against Euro-federalism 4 October 2009
Lisbon Treaty and Democracy
The result of the Lisbon 2 referendum in Ireland is a body blow to democracy and the right to self-determination of nation-states. Put in place, the Lisbon Treaty/European Constitution would turn the current intergovernmental arrangements into a super-state and super-power.
The Irish referendum result is a fact but does not make it legitimate in either democratic or political terms. Reports from Ireland make clear that the referendum was run in a grossly fraudulent and entirely undemocratic manner. Limitless money was made available to the Yes! side to the point where that side spent at least ten times as much as the No! side. This money came from the Commission, the Irish Government, Political Parties in the European Parliament and private business firms.
An aim of the European Constitution is to consolidate the EU’s institutions and turn the unaccountable Commission and Councils of Ministers into a euro-federalist government answerable to nobody. This is the sole constitution in the world which enshrines capitalism as the only economic system permitted.
The Constitution would further develop the Single European Market for big capital under the guise of the “free movement of capital, goods, services and people”. This would be ensured by the European Court of Justice which has already decreed against trade union and workers’ rights including the right to strike.
What must be done by all democrats is to:
- Make the European Constitution a high profile subject in the forthcoming general election - including a referendum on the Lisbon Treaty.
- Press for Parliamentary control over Ministers exercising their powers at the EU level – ie as decided by Germany’s parliament.
- Defend all aspects of democracy and sovereignty which would remain if Lisbon Treaty is put in place.
- Expose and oppose EU legislation – policies, dictats, directives, regulations.
- Develop further an understanding of all aspects of democracy and the right to self-determination of nation-states
Other pieces on the Lisbon II referendum in Ireland which were published before and after the 2 October 2009
Where now? Democracy or EU Dictatorship - Editorial
"Guarantees" for Lisbon II
Statement by People's Movement of Ireland on "Guarantees"
Maastricht trick for Lisbon II?
Invalidity of "Guarantees" for Lisbon II
For more information see People's Movement website
Also for information and analysis National Platform of Ireland
Peace and Neutrality Alliance of Ireland - PANA
Go to list of articles in the current Democrat
Return to Democrat contents
To subscribe to Democrat (members are posted each issue free)
Membership form
Order form for material
Details about our Campaign against Euro-federalism
Home page
top