Govt disappointed at FG move

The Government has said it is disappointed that Fine Gael has decided not to participate in the Forum on Europe set up to discuss Irish concerns about EU membership.

Yesterday, Fine Gael leader Michael Noonan sent a letter to the Taoiseach saying he is not prepared to enter what he called "a costly talking shop".

Mr Noonan said the Government only talks to the opposition when it is in difficulty and he said the Forum on Europe won't address the concerns of those who voted 'no' to the Nice Treaty.