Divisions over possible EU treaty referendum

SHARP differences over a possible referendum on any new EU treaty emerged between the Government and opposition parties as Enda Kenny briefed TDs about last week’s summit.

Echoing his discussion with opposition leaders yesterday, the Taoiseach told the Dáil that it was in everyone’s interests that there was more fiscal discipline in how countries draw up their budgets.

Amid increasing public euro scepticism, Fianna Fáil and Sinn Féin pushed for treaty changes to be put to a vote next year. This was even before any final decision is taken on the need to go to the polls following legal advice from the Attorney General, which will be decided in March.