11/12/2008

Second Lisbon Referendum Looms

The Irish Premier is expected to tell an EU summit in Brussels that a second Lisbon treaty vote will be taken by October.

The Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, (pictured) has been touring Europe over the past two weeks, negotiating with Europe's leaders in an effort to secure a series of amendments to ensure a 'Yes' vote next year.

A number of changes have been negotiated by the Government, including provisions for military neutrality, tax sovereignty and the primacy of the Irish constitution on social issues, such as abortion and marriage laws.

There will also be new language on the protection of workers rights, and the provision of public services like health and education by government and local authorities.

If these changes are upheld, it is believed the Taoiseach intends to go ahead with a second referendum, where he hopes the new provisions will weaken the sway of anti Lisbon groups such as Libertas.

(DW)

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