Adrian Severin (PSE), in writing. – While we keep behind our closed doors states like Croatia, Turkey, Ukraine and Moldova, which are struggling to become members, we strive to keep in states which are unsure that it is worthwhile to be members of a strong union. It is unfair, unproductive and unsustainable to treat the eurosceptics better than the euro-enthusiasts.

Equal respect for all nations means confronting each one with its own responsibility. Trying to cheat and tempt someone with illusory protocols and concessions in order to change decisions without changing convictions would be an offence and a lack of democratic respect.

The Irish people should take as much time as necessary in order to reflect on its European future. Perhaps the best frame for such a democratic reflection would be early elections. Anyhow, the Irish must use their own time and not the others’ time. Therefore an interim status for Ireland within the EU, letting the European integration progress with fewer states involved, must be considered.

Eventually, through a new referendum, the Irish people should answer the question of whether they want to stay in the European Union on the basis of the Lisbon Treaty or if they want to play a ‘chevalier role’ in the storms of the global order.