Business groups welcome Lisbon 'Yes' vote

Business groups representing interests at home and abroad have welcomed the result of the Lisbon Treaty referendum.

IBEC - which had endorsed a 'Yes' vote - has said the result reaffirms Ireland's "long-standing, positive and constructive" role in Europe.

The treaty was passed yesterday, through a majority of two to one.

The American Chamber said that from a US multinational point of view the result is very important.

The group says 98% of multinational CEOs here believe the yes vote will have a positive impact on their business.

The Irish Farmers Association is also welcoming the 'Yes' vote. The IFA's executive council had unanimously endorsed the Treaty.

IFA President Padraig Walshe said being at the heart of Europe is vital for Irish farm families.

Meanwhile, the main opposition parties are warning the Government that it is business as usual from now on.

Fine Gael and Labour joined the Government parties in campaigning for a 'Yes' vote in the run-up to the referendum, despite both calling for a change of Government.

Enda Kenny said although the treaty has been passed, there is still huge anger against the Government.