“Over more than 50 years, EU membership has transformed Ireland’s economy and society. It has delivered meaningful change and unprecedented progress for our people, our workers and our communities. The EU remains essential to our sovereignty and prosperity.

“As we mark the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, we are reminded of the visionary clarity that laid the foundations of today’s European Union — a community built not on conquest, but on co-operation, not on rivalry, but on reconciliation.

“Let us take today to appreciate the strong partnership and continued co-operation between 27 diverse countries and renew our vision for a united EU, based on shared values and common interests."

“For decades, the European Union has been a strong and unwavering partner in peace and reconciliation on this island.

“The support of our European partners helped us build and maintain the institutions of the Good Friday Agreement.

“That support continues to this day — in quiet diplomacy, in practical funding, and in the moral and political weight that the EU brings to bear in promoting reconciliation.”

“Today, the European Union remains a force for peace, democracy, and the rule of law.

“Standing for our values has never been so consequential.

“We face unprecedented geopolitical instability at this time — from Russian aggression on the doorstep of Europe, to the rise of extremism and a new transatlantic trading relationship.

“The need for strong, centrist, pro-European leadership has never been greater.

“That is why I am proud that the European Union, and Ireland within it, has moved decisively to support the people of Ukraine, and to welcome them into our communities. Europe is at its best when it is united, not fragmented — when it works not in narrow interests, but for the common good.”