Referendum: Vote Yes for business - Sean Kelly MEP

Wednesday, 9th May 2012

Ireland South MEP, Sean Kelly, is calling on his constituents to vote Yes in the Stability Treaty Referendum in order to boost investor confidence and business opportunities in Ireland.

The Fine Gael MEP says the outcome of the referendum on Thursday, May 31st will be keenly observed by the business community both at home and abroad:

"A Yes vote will not suddenly bring austerity to an end. It will take time and effort from both the government and the people to rebuild our economy and foster prosperity. However, voting Yes will demonstrate thatIrelandis firmly committed to greater fiscal responsibility and returned growth across Europe- that message will be welcomed by overseas investors.

"In 2011, 148 individual Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) were made in Ireland- the highest annual figure in over a decade. These included some of the worlds leading multinational operations, particularly in the technology sector. Ireland has been so successful in attracting FDI to date because businesses view our proximity to and close relationship with the EU as the ideal base for entering the European market.

"It is no surprise that the Irish business community has been resolute in its support for the treaty. IBEC, IDA Ireland and the American Chamber of Commerce have all called for a Yes vote on May 31st. These organisations understand that Ireland must do all it can to encourage companies to invest in our country, to create jobs and be part of our economic recovery."

Mr Kelly has likened the ratification of the Treaty to "providing Irelandwith an additional layer of security through the European Stability Mechanism fund. Voting Yes will further increase investor confidence in Ireland. The Stability Treaty is good for business."