Ahern addresses Forum on Europe

Bertie Ahern has told the Forum on Europe that Ireland will hold up the process of EU enlargement unless it ratifies the Treaty of Nice.

Mr Ahern said enlargement is the greatest challenge facing the EU and it cannot finalise its plans until the treaty is accepted by all 15 member states.

He also said the rejection of the treaty by the Irish electorate earlier this year has "left him in an uncomfortable situation".