[The European People's Party] [European Parliament Committees] [EU - Growing and Changing]

Fine Gael Leader Enda Kenny addressing the 15th EPP Congress, 'Our Future - A Strong Europe' in Estoril, Portugal. Fine Gael wants Ireland to be part of a European Union that creates opportunity and wealth at home, which is competitive at world level, but at the same time champions the wellbeing of the citizens of Europe, and also the rest of the world.

On January 1, 1973, Ireland took a historic step by joining the European Economic Community (EEC). The decision to join was one of the most important taken by the people of Ireland since the foundation of the State. Over time, Ireland's membership of this evolving European partnership of nations became one of the most positive aspects of our society, and if of fundamental importance to us today.

In May, 1972, a referendum was held to decide whether Ireland would join this community of like-minded European countries, then called the EEC. This was Ireland's first referendum on a European matter. At the time, and leading the national debate on the question, Fine Gael campaigned strongly in favour of Ireland's accession to the EEC.

The referendum was carried, and Ireland joined the EEC in 1973. As time passed, the EEC evolved, becoming firstly the European Community (EC) and then the European Union (EU).

Since Ireland's accession, Fine Gael has consistently advocated that we should play a central role in this important European partnership. The EU is growing at an increasing pace and Ireland has much to offer, and much to learn, from its European neighbours.

From the beginning, Fine Gael believed that membership of this community would be of considerable benefit to Ireland. In the sphere of economic development, and progressive legislative reforms, this view was correct, and Fine Gael continues to be the most pro-European Party in Ireland.

Ireland's membership of the EU has broadened our horizons, and has had a positive effect upon the lives of Irish people at home and abroad.

• Citizens of Ireland have benefited not only from the freedom to travel, work, reside and use a single currency throughout the EU, but also from the recognition of their qualifications in other Member States.
• Ireland's membership of the EU has helped us to challenge the endemic inequalities that exist in our society. The principle that we are all equal, regardless of sex, has been advanced. Furthermore, the EU continues to bring forward equality directives designed to combat discrimination on the grounds of racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation.
• Ireland's membership of the EU has helped us to realise that our environment must be protected. Economic development must no longer equal environmental destruction.
• Ireland's membership of the EU has been instrumental in our economic success. Substantial Structural and Cohesion Funds contributed to economic growth, helping to finance investment in our infrastructure, education and training and production sectors. Moreover, EU reforms on areas such as deregulation have transformed the marketplace, helping us grow our economy, and the value of our exports.