Ahern insists Nice does not affect neutrality

The Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, has insisted that Ireland’s neutrality will not be threatened by a yes vote in the Nice Treaty referendum on October 19.

Speaking at a Fianna Fail organisation meeting in Tralee, Co Kerry, Mr Ahern said the European Union respects Ireland’s policy of neutrality, as shown by the declaration made at the European Council meeting in Seville last June.