Monday, 5th October 2009
Ireland says yes to the Lisbon Treaty
At the second Referendum on the Lisbon Treaty 67.3% of the citizens of Ireland voted “Yes”, and 32.87% were against the treaty. Only 2 of Ireland's 43 constituencies have rejected the ratification of the Lisbon Treaty.
At the first referendum held last year 53.4 voted against the Lisbon Treaty.
The aim of the Lisbon Treaty, signed on 13th December 2007 by representatives of the Member States, is to reform the Union and prepare it for future enlargement. Also, it is a Charter on the fundamental human rights in Europe and is legally binding.
The Treaty changes the manner of adoption of decisions in the Council of the European Union, strengthening the role of the European Parliament in the legilstive provcedure, decreasing the number of members of the European Commisssion from 27 to 18, and envisions introduction of the President of the Council of the European Union, who shall have the task to provide continuity in the work of the Council and promote consensus among the Members Countries.
Before the Lisbon Treaty enters into force it must be ratified by all 27 EU Member States.