The Eire Independent reports that Ireland (Republic of - as distinct from what the locals in the North, I'm reliably informed, refer to as 'Norn Iron') will not be able to hold up ratification of a new European treaty, even if a referendum on the agreement is required in that country. This is because the new 'treaty', formulated following 'Events Buxelles' earlier this month, can be enacted just on the votes of 9 member states. It is obvious that this 'arrangement' has been decided upon to ensure that this new 'treaty' is not scuppered by one of the 26 (a figure that may well decrease), who we are informed are in agreement to this new 'treaty', holding a referendum which results in rejection.
This decision to ratify any new treaty would appear to be in contravention of Article 4.2 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU), which states:
"The Union shall respect the equality of Member states before the Treaties as well as their national identities, inherent in their fundamental structures, political and constitutional,........"
This decision also kinda makes a mockery of the Preamble to the TEU in which it is stated:
"Confirming their attachment to the principles of liberty, democracy and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms and the rule of law."
Just saying................
