On the 2^nd of October 2009, the citizens of the Republic of Ireland were asked to cast their vote in a second referendum on the ratification of the Treaty of Lisbon.

In the words of Irish Prime Minister, Brian Cowen, “The European Union is the means by which we make a meaningful impact on the wider world in which we exist. The Lisbon Treaty will equip the European Union to deal with an unpredictable future. And more than ever, we need an effective Europe now.”

The implications for the EU are significant. In order to discuss the future of the European Union, following the vote in Ireland, particularly the implications for the EU’s institutions, as well as its relevance as a global actor, the Malta-EU Steering & Action Committee (MEUSAC) organised  a national conference on Friday, 9^th October 2009 at the Westin Dragonara Resort in St. Julian’s.

The Conference was opened by Dr. Tonio Borg, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs. The concluding address was delivered by the Prime Minister, Dr. Lawrence Gonzi.