Ahern downbeat on agreeing EU Constitution

TAOISEACH Bertie Ahern yesterday warned that a resolution of the EU Constitution impasse would become much more difficult after this summer's European elections.

Speaking in Rome after meeting with his predecessor as EU president, Silvio Berlusconi, Mr Ahern was downbeat about agreeing a new constitution once elections changed the European political landscape.

In addition, negotiations are further hampered by the fact that two of the countries at the centre of the current disagreement, Spain and Poland, are facing their own internal elections.

"It is my firm belief that it's not going to get any easier," said Mr Ahern, adding that a new EU Parliament, Commission and Commissioner would only serve to hamper efforts to reach an agreement. "It is not the case that waiting a longer term is going to make things easier. It is my view it is going to make things more difficult."

When asked for his assessment of the possibility of the issue being resolved before Ireland's six-month presidency ends, Mr Ahern was cautiously optimistic."It is clear the vast majority would like to make early progress, but that's not feasible unless the key players have to move. There has to be a movement that allows a compromise to be created. That has not happened yet. "It is not a question of the Italian Presidency or the Irish Presidency coming up with a formula. There will not be a formula without movement."

Mr Berlusconi, who on Wednesday told Italian television that the Italian EU Presidency had been 80% successful, warned that individual nations would have to be unselfish in order to reach an agreement."Some countries are going to have to change their view," he said adding that he was fully aware that hard decisions had to be made. "They need to gradually come to terms with this and realise it's important for Europe as a whole."

When asked whether he had any advice for Ireland and its presidency, the Italian premier was diplomatic and paid tribute to Bertie Ahern. "I don't think Prime Minister Ahern needs any advice. He is a distinguished and experienced leader."Mr Ahern in turn said the experience and wisdom gathered by the Italian Presidency in the last six months would prove invaluable to the Irish Presidency which would seek to build on the achievements already made by the Italians.

During yesterday's meeting, both leaders also emphasised the importance of working to increase European competitiveness.

Aside from the EU Constitution, the issue of strengthening Europe's economy will be the central focus of this Spring's EU Council summit.

Mr Berlusconi warned that the outlook for the European economy this year was below that for the US and far eastern countries.