EU leaders continue talks in Brussels

EU leaders are meeting in Brussels today are attempting to make the Union more efficient and democratic.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern is joining the 14 other heads of state and government in signing up to a declaration which should pave the way for the EU to expand from 15 member states to at least 27 over the next 10 years.

Enlargement was one of the main issues contained in the rejected Nice Treaty.

They are set to launch a major review of the organisation ahead of the planned admission of 12 new members over the next five years.

The leaders have approved a declaration which sets up a constitutional convention which may propose changes to the EU.

Former French President Giscard D’estaing will head the body.