Ireland had joined the OEEC in 1948 and the Council of Europe in 1949. Post- World War II Irish governments saw these European bodies as a way for Ireland to reengage with the international community after the isolation of neutrality during World War II.
As we saw in chapter 20, Ireland in the 1950s was following a protectionist economic policy. It was not invited to join either the European Coal and Steel Community in 1952 or the European Economic Community in 1957. When Seán Lemass changed Irish economic policy to favour exports and trade, he explored joining the EEC but realised Ireland could only join if Britain did. This was because Britain was Ireland’s largest trading partner. When Britain applied in 1961, so did Ireland.
EU referendum poster
When the British application was vetoed by de Gaulle, Ireland withdrew. When Britain reapplied in 1967, to no avail, Ireland had applied as well. When de Gaulle left offi ce in 1969, the applications were submitted again. This time, after three years of tough negotiations, Ireland joined the EC, along with Britain and Denmark.
In this
topic, you will learn about:
Ireland’s applications to join the EEC
The impact that membership has had on Ireland
Taoiseach Jack Lynch signing the EU accession papers
