01/06/2009

Lisbon Treaty Now Has Support Of 66%

The Lisbon Treaty would be passed if a second referendum were taken this week, according to a new poll.

The Irish Times /TNS mrbi poll suggests there is now solid support for the Lisbon Treaty, with up to 66% claiming they would support ratification of the much discussed document that would give greater powers to the EU.

It is believed voters are now looking to the European Union as a safe haven as the global financial crisis continues to bite. Ireland has become one of the most vulnerable members of the EU, after threats of huge fines and possible expulsion emerged after Ireland found its finances of the EU's allowances.

Launching their European Election Manifesto today, Leader of the main opposition party, Enda Kenny, said "Fine Gael strongly supports the Lisbon Treaty. We argued in favour of a Yes vote in the last referendum. Events since

then have absolutely reinforced our view that the ratification of the Treaty is vital for Ireland. We will once again support the Yes campaign in the referendum later in 2009."

Meanwhile, Leader of anti-Lisbon party Libertas, Declan Ganley, who is also running for office in the European elections, said "It's just too important an election for people not to vote this week. It is Europe's last, best chance to speak out against the unwanted Lisbon Constitution."

(DW/BMcc)

Related Irish News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

20 November 2008
Broadcasters Face Lisbon Committee
A number of high profile broadcasters have this morning faced the Oireachtas committee examining Ireland's rejection of the Lisbon Treaty. Among them was well known pundit Eamon Dunphy who told the committee he didn't support the Treaty because it was deliberately designed to be incomprehensible to ordinary people.
13 June 2008
Lisbon Treaty Rejected
Irish voters have rejected the Lisbon Treaty. With results in from 38 of the 43 constituencies, the Lisbon Treaty is being beaten by a margin of 53.7% to 46.3%. According to RTÉ this afternoon, while that margin is expected to tighten as more results are announced, the result is not in doubt.
11 June 2009
Sarkozy Would "Even Be Ready To Travel To Ireland" Over Treaty
French President Nicolas Sarkozy has said he is prepared to travel to Ireland to gather support for the second referendum on the Lisbon Treaty. Last years vote on the controversial treaty returned a no vote in Ireland, despite visits from Mr Sarkozy and German Chancellor Angela Merkel.
23 June 2008
Pope Visit In Time For 'Yes' Vote?
Sunday’s announcement that Dublin will host the 50th international Eucharistic Congress in 2012 has sparked renewed speculation of a papal visit next year.
10 June 2008
Cowen Avoids Commitment On Collective Bargaining
The Taoiseach has failed to say collective bargaining in the workplace, enshrined in the Lisbon Treaty, will be extended to workers in Ireland. Responding to a call from the country's largest trade union, Brian Cowen was unable to give a commitment to the SIPTU before it could recommend a yes vote to its members.