French optimistic for EU Constitution

FRENCH prime minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin said yesterday he is optimistic that an EU Constitution will be passed under Ireland’s European presidency.

On a state visit to Dublin, Mr Raffarin told Taoiseach Bertie Ahern that a constitutional treaty has to come with EU enlargement.

Mr Raffarin said in Government Buildings: “On a majority of items, the French are positive they will be able to support the Irish proposal at the council.”