Ratifying the Lisbon Treaty is "the next logical step" for Ireland's membership of the European Union, Minister of State for European Affairs Dick Roche said today.
Speaking at the International Institute for European Affairs, Mr Roche said there was "universal recognition" of the value of EU membership to Ireland.
"It has enabled us to fulfil cherished national ambitions. It has brought jobs and prosperity to our shores. Now that we have reached this advantageous position, we must decide what future we want for ourselves," Mr Roche said.
Ireland is likely to be the only member state to vote hold a referendum on the treaty - due in late May or early June. Those advocating a vote against the treaty would try to create confusion, Mr Roche warned.
He said that when the electorate votes, it must decide whether it wants Ireland to help shape the future of the EU or "thumb our noses" at Europe and "resolve to go it alone".
Mr Roche also rejected a call by Sinn Féin, which opposes the treaty, for every household in the State to be sent a copy of the consolidated version of the treaties published today.
The cost would be "prohibitive" and would serve little purpose as it is a complex legal text, he said. Reliable summaries of the treaty would better serve to enhance public understanding, Mr Roche added..
He was speaking at the unveiling of the consolidated version of the EU treaties. It accounts for the amendments to previous treaties in the event that Lisbon is ratified by all 27 member states.
Sinn Féin is the only party in the Dáil opposing the treaty. The Green Party leadership is supporting Lisbon, but its members are free to oppose it.
The consolidated version of the treaties can be seen at www.reformtreaty.ie.