The debate around Lisbon is now beginning to take-off, with internet forums such as boards.ie providing excellent fora for debate.

Below are some of the highlights from one such discussion, which asked people to explain in a single sentence why they were voting for the treaty.

o   Ireland’s and Europe’s voices will be stronger on the world stage.

o   EU competency will be increased to a common energy policy, which should hopefully result in cheaper fuels/electricity (PopeBuckfastXVI)

o   More power to the democratically elected European Parliament

o   The Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union will be enshrined in the law.

o   Lisbon makes it easier to handle more than 27 member states. (Turgon)

o   More national influence on legislation, Irish Dáil (and other parliaments) gain early access to influence new legislation. (Blitzkrieg)

o   Making the EU more democratic-giving the parliament more power and making it more accountable. (Conchubhar1)

o   It will make the running of the EU more efficient. (Mark200)

o   Time for national parliaments to review legislation increased from 6 weeks to 8 weeks.

o   First ever exit procedure contained in the treaties.

o   The role of the EU (European Council President) is changes to a 2.5 year term, which provides continuity in the work of the EU. (Hitman Actual)

o   More power to the European Parliament. (Iwasfrozen)

o   Citizens Initiative. (Mollyjh)

o   Vastly improves the current inefficient presidency system. Finally gives Ireland a say in the choice of the president of the council, as opposed to having to accept without question whichever EU leader’s turn it is.

o   It [Lisbon] enhances the powers of the European Parliament and allows National Parliaments more of a say in EU legislation. (Ixtlan)

For the full discussion please click here.