As a member of the Irish Hotels Federation I want to support there call for a yes vote in the up coming referendum on the Lisbon treaty . The following is the press release issued by the IHF . The Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) is a member of the Business Alliance for Europe which today launched its campaign for a yes vote on the Lisbon Reform Treaty. In supporting the initiative, the IHF calls on its 1,000 member hotels and guesthouses and their 60,000 employees to vote yes in the upcoming referendum. John Power, Chief Executive, IHF, states, “It is vital that Ireland remains fully engaged with the EU given the tremendous opportunities that a strong and efficient Europe offers Irish businesses. In the last 10 years Ireland has doubled its exports to other EU states (from e44bn to e87bn) and in the same period the revenue from mainland European tourist who visited Ireland has almost trebled to e1.6bn.” “Ireland’s active and positive involvement in the development of the EU continues to be a major attractor of foreign direct investment. It is important that Ireland’s positive support of the development of the EU continues. Anything other than a decisive ‘yes’ in the referendum would undermine the international perception of Ireland as a desirable place to visit and in which to do business.” The IHF believes the strengthened and reformed institutions arising from the Treaty will allow the EU to achieve greater levels of economic prosperity and to face more effectively the challenges of development and enlargement. By playing a positive role in shaping Europe’s future, Ireland protects its status as a desirable location for both existing and future foreign investment by businesses seeking a foothold in the European market. The Lisbon Reform Treaty includes a commitment to cooperate with emerging economies which in future will expand the possibilities for future trade and exports including tourism opportunities. The benefits arising from the Treaty will also generate additional opportunities for Irish business through greater realisation of the internal market. “Ireland has established a tremendous level of goodwill within Europe and has long been regarded as a welcoming country for visitors and overseas workers. The foundation of the Irish tourist brand is our people and our open, friendly and welcoming attitude. From a hospitality and tourism perspective, a resounding ‘yes’ to the Lisbon Treaty will substantiate this reputation in the eyes of the other 26 member states,” adds Mr Power.