05/10/2009
Czechs Check Ireland's Lisbon Landslide
Ireland has said 'Yes' to the controversial Lisbon Treaty during a surprising landslide victory at its second trip to the polls.
Now Europe is looking to the treaty's last hurdle, the Czech Republic, who are continuing to stall their ratification of Lisbon.
Eurosceptic Czech President Vaclav Klaus is currently delaying signing the document that will supposedly streamline the EU's procedures and make for a more effective parliament.
The Irish people voted in favour of the Treaty by an unexpectedly high 67%, with the 'No' vote coming in at 33%. Turnout was also higher than expected at 58%.
Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt, whose country currently holds the EU presidency, said: "The European Council is united in its wish to see the treaty enter into force before the end of the year."
Following the announcement of the win, Taoiseach Brian Cowen gave a press conference at Government Buildings saying the result had been "clear and resounding".
"We are stronger, fairer and better Ireland. The EU will become more efficient and effective in dealing with the global concerns we all face.
"I want to today recognise those who contributed to this resounding 'Yes' vote. The other parties in the Daíl who stood with us – they have put the nation ahead of party politics and I think thank them for that.
"The credit for this victory however goes to the Irish people. Thank you all for standing together with us."
If the Czech President capitulates to European pressure, the Lisbon Treaty may face one final threat in the form of the British Conservative party, which could come to power next year.
Mr Cameron's position on the Lisbon Treaty, as outlined during this week's party conference, is for a possible British referendum, whether the Treaty has been ratified or not.
Ireland's 'Yes' vote means he is now under pressure to say what he would do if the Treaty is in force before the election.
(DW/BMcC)
Now Europe is looking to the treaty's last hurdle, the Czech Republic, who are continuing to stall their ratification of Lisbon.
Eurosceptic Czech President Vaclav Klaus is currently delaying signing the document that will supposedly streamline the EU's procedures and make for a more effective parliament.
The Irish people voted in favour of the Treaty by an unexpectedly high 67%, with the 'No' vote coming in at 33%. Turnout was also higher than expected at 58%.
Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt, whose country currently holds the EU presidency, said: "The European Council is united in its wish to see the treaty enter into force before the end of the year."
Following the announcement of the win, Taoiseach Brian Cowen gave a press conference at Government Buildings saying the result had been "clear and resounding".
"We are stronger, fairer and better Ireland. The EU will become more efficient and effective in dealing with the global concerns we all face.
"I want to today recognise those who contributed to this resounding 'Yes' vote. The other parties in the Daíl who stood with us – they have put the nation ahead of party politics and I think thank them for that.
"The credit for this victory however goes to the Irish people. Thank you all for standing together with us."
If the Czech President capitulates to European pressure, the Lisbon Treaty may face one final threat in the form of the British Conservative party, which could come to power next year.
Mr Cameron's position on the Lisbon Treaty, as outlined during this week's party conference, is for a possible British referendum, whether the Treaty has been ratified or not.
Ireland's 'Yes' vote means he is now under pressure to say what he would do if the Treaty is in force before the election.
(DW/BMcC)
Related Irish News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
28 February 2024
Gaming Business Ideas To Start In Ireland
Are you passionate about gaming and considering turning your hobby into a profitable business in Ireland? You're in luck! The gaming industry is booming, and many opportunities are waiting for you. Here are ten gaming business ideas that could be your ticket to success in this exciting field. 1.
Gaming Business Ideas To Start In Ireland
Are you passionate about gaming and considering turning your hobby into a profitable business in Ireland? You're in luck! The gaming industry is booming, and many opportunities are waiting for you. Here are ten gaming business ideas that could be your ticket to success in this exciting field. 1.
12 March 2024
How Much Gambling Takes Place in Ireland?
When we think of Ireland, we may think of many things ranging from lush green landscapes to Guinness and Irish dancing, but it may be surprising to learn that the country has a passion for gambling.
How Much Gambling Takes Place in Ireland?
When we think of Ireland, we may think of many things ranging from lush green landscapes to Guinness and Irish dancing, but it may be surprising to learn that the country has a passion for gambling.
14 March 2024
Ministers Praise Critical Work Of Ireland Funds
The First Minister and deputy First Minister have praised the work of Ireland Funds, highlighting its critical role in promoting and supporting peace. Michelle O'Neill and Emma Little-Pengelly, speaking at the Ireland Funds Gala in Washington, welcomed the positive and real impact made across society by the philanthropic body.
Ministers Praise Critical Work Of Ireland Funds
The First Minister and deputy First Minister have praised the work of Ireland Funds, highlighting its critical role in promoting and supporting peace. Michelle O'Neill and Emma Little-Pengelly, speaking at the Ireland Funds Gala in Washington, welcomed the positive and real impact made across society by the philanthropic body.
13 March 2024
How Much Gambling Takes Place in Ireland?
When we think of Ireland, we may think of many things ranging from lush green landscapes to Guinness and Irish dancing, but it may be surprising to learn that the country has a passion for gambling.
How Much Gambling Takes Place in Ireland?
When we think of Ireland, we may think of many things ranging from lush green landscapes to Guinness and Irish dancing, but it may be surprising to learn that the country has a passion for gambling.
13 March 2024
Public Appeal After Third Confirmed Case Of Measles In Ireland
The Public Health Agency (PHA) has announced that it has been made aware of a third confirmed case of measles in the Republic of Ireland. It is understood that the case was confirmed in a resident of Ireland who had arrived back in the country from Abu Dhabi on Saturday 9 March 2024.
Public Appeal After Third Confirmed Case Of Measles In Ireland
The Public Health Agency (PHA) has announced that it has been made aware of a third confirmed case of measles in the Republic of Ireland. It is understood that the case was confirmed in a resident of Ireland who had arrived back in the country from Abu Dhabi on Saturday 9 March 2024.
-
Ireland WeatherToday:Mainly dry this morning with sunny spells then scattered showers breaking out this afternoon. A chilly start then feeling warmer in afternoon sunshine. Light southerly winds. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:Any showers at first soon dying out. Then dry overnight with clear periods and turning chilly with a touch of frost later tonight. Minimum temperature 1 °C.