16/02/2009

Survey Reveals Ireland Would Back Second Lisbon Vote

A survey published today has revealed the majority of Irish voters would vote yes for the Lisbon in a second referendum.

The Irish Times TNS/mrbi poll, taken among 1,000 voters around the country, suggests the economic crisis has shifted the public mood into the Yes camp over the hotly debated treaty.

Despite a defeat for the treaty in late 2008, European Affairs Minister Dick Roche said he was certain that Irish voters' concerns would be addressed.

The government made a number of high power visits in December to secure a number of concessions for Ireland in the treaty.

Mr Roche welcomed the results of the poll showing that 51% of respondents would support the treaty if the concessions, such as a special Irish European Commissioner, were met.

Other issues that contributed to the treaty's sensational defeat last year include assurances on neutrality, abortion and tax.

Mr Roche says he is confident that the Government "will meet all of the requirements of the Irish people".

However, Sinn Féin has dismissed the results. Sinn Féin's Pádriag Mac Lochlainn, said the poll was only a snapshot in time and people's views could still change before a second Lisbon Treaty referendum is held.

(DW/BMcC)

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