The idea of a united Europe hit me in the 60s and it really struck me after the terrible events of the first half of the 20th century that it was the way forward for all of us. As far as the UK was concerned, the days of Empire were coming to end and this had to be accepted but as a part of a united Europe our country could continue to make a valuable contribution in the world. I have never been given cause to change my mind in these respects; I voted remain in both referendums and was overjoyed to receive the status as an EU citizen. I had long harboured a desire that I would be able to end my days in Languedoc in a better climate and a more relaxed way of life, still enjoying a sense of freedom and acceptance by being an EU citizen.

However, it would appear that Brexit has put paid to this for two reasons, the first being the decrease in the value of the pound, likely to fall further and coupled with that a likely end to our reciprocal health agreement, which would mean contributing to private health insurance at some considerable cost.

In addition, being an EU citizen gave me a widened sense of identity and freedom, which I was proud to hold and valued greatly.

What I cannot understand in respect of the leave side is that whilst many do not feel the need to widen their wings and experience the benefits of life, study or just plain travelling of the continent of Europe, why interfere with the rights of those who do? Considering that in the referendum, we were almost split down the middle with only a slight majority for leave of those who voted, it appears to me to be a very selfish outlook on the part of the leavers.

This brings me on to the great sense of injustice I feel in respect of this. The lies, misrepresentations and false promises, used by the leave side in the referendum, are now well known. Then for our own government to virtually ignore completely the wishes of what is half the country is utterly beyond my comprehension. In fact, I feel deeply shamed by such an unethical stance of our own government, which has in effect, opened Pandora’s Box to inward thinking, an increase in xenophobia, lack of tolerance and an unjustified arrogance.

Above the considerations for myself, having lived most of my life in a more congenial national atmosphere, I have deeper concerns, especially for my grandchildren whose lives will be thwarted in many ways because of this.

The ideal way would obviously be full EU citizenship as it was but failing that a system of Associate EU citizenship would at least help to mitigate the situation, especially if it involves the opportunities of freedom of movement in studies, work, domicile and travel.

My grandchildren, although born as EU citizens, have done nothing to deserve the constrictions which would be imposed by Brexit. They didn’t even have an opportunity to vote but may have to live with it for the remainder of their lives.

Mike Meehan

By email