Berlusconi moots ‘core Europe’ plan if Ireland votes No

ITALIAN Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has suggested a “core Europe” of like-minded EU member states could be formed if Ireland rejects the Lisbon Treaty for a second time.

Yes campaigners, including European Affairs Minister Dick Roche, have already warned that a “two-tier” EU could develop if Ireland says No again.

If the treaty is defeated, Mr Berlusconi believes member states in favour of Lisbon should simply unite and move on – the implication being that Ireland would be left behind.