Jump in support for Lisbon treaty amid timing row

AS AN opinion poll published today reveals a sharp increase in voter support for the Lisbon treaty, Fine Gael is at odds as to when a second referendum should be held.

The TNS/mrbi poll shows that a new referendum with security guarantees has the backing of a clear majority of voters with 51% voting yes, 33% no and 16% undecided. A similar poll, carried out in November, revealed 43% support for the treaty. Respondents were asked in the Irish Times poll how they would vote in a referendum where commitments were made on Ireland’s right to an EU Commissioner and legal guarantees on neutrality, abortion and taxation.

Meanwhile, there is disagreement within Fine Gael as to when the second referendum should be held, with party leader Enda Kenny saying October and one of his MEPs arguing for April.