Since creation of the E.U. a half century ago, Europe has enjoyed the longest period of peace in its history.

Ireland has a role to play in making the E.U. united and strong.

If the EU and the US can cooperate successfully on regulating financial markets, everyone else will follow.

Of course the EU and member states must work to ensure that people moving from one country to another understand their obligations and their rights in areas like health, road safety and further education.

European investment in Texas alone exceeds all U.S. investment in China and Japan put together.

The time horizon may be too long for sole reliance on market solutions - but perhaps the inventiveness of the financial services industry will prove me wrong that point!

The European Union is the world's most successful invention for advancing peace.