Constitutional deal is 'Irish presidency's top priority'

A deal as soon as possible on a European constitutional treaty is the Irish presidency’s top priority, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said today.

Stalemate was not an option, and excessive delay in picking up the pieces after constitution talks failed last month would damage EU credibility.

Mr Ahern, unveiling plans for Dublin’s six months in charge of the EU, said the constitution was “profoundly” in the interests of the people of Europe.

But a deal would only be reached if there was the collective political will of EU leaders, he told Euro-MPs in Strasbourg.

He said he had already discussed the issue with “many” of his counterparts in readiness for the report on prospects which Dublin will present at the next EU summit in March.

All had indicated a commitment to “find a way forward”, said Mr Ahern, adding: “I can assure the Parliament that if my consultations suggest that there is a real prospect of agreement I will immediately move to seize the opportunity.

“I pledge to you that the Irish Presidency will spare no effort to make progress and to facilitate consensus during our term in office. The issue will command the highest priority under our Presidency.”

He said it remained to be seen whether a deal was possible before Ireland handed the EU baton to the Netherlands at the end of June.

“We know what the outstanding issues are. Various possible solutions have been proposed. But ultimately, if we are to arrive at the necessary compromises, what is needed is sufficient collective political will.

“A new constitution would help the Union respond to the demands and expectations of its citizens. It would help the Union play a more coherent and effective role in the wider world.

“On the other hand, excessive delay will damage our credibility and weaken our standing. Stalemate is not an option any of us can contemplate.”

Last week Mr Ahern signalled constitution difficulties for Britain's Prime Minister Tony Blair by insisting the UK would have to defend its “red lines” over Europe’s future all over again, if and when the talks resume.

Any understanding on parts of the deal reached between EU leaders before the constitution talks collapsed in December were “irrelevant” said Mr Ahern.

Mr Blair had claimed there was broad agreement to respect his “red lines” on foreign policy, taxation, social security, defence and the euro-budget.

These are all policies on which Mr Blair says the UK must keep the right of veto, ruling out a shift to majority voting.

But if Ireland can revive the talks, Mr Ahern has made clear that everything is back in the melting pot – including Ireland’s own “red lines” – and that nothing is agreed until everything is agreed.