Site aims to explain EU Constitution ahead of poll

The Government has launched a new website dedicated to the European Constitution.

European Affairs Minister Noel Treacy said the site www.europeanconstitution.ie was designed to help the public engage in an informed debate before a referendum later this year.

“The launch of this site demonstrates the Government’s commitment to provide the public with all of the information they require on the European Constitution,” he said.

“I look forward to a lively and informed debate on the European Constitution prior to the national referendum on the issue.”

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern brokered agreement on the Treaty in the final days of Ireland’s EU presidency last June.

The Government is expected to hold a referendum in the autumn, possibly in October.

The new website provides an introduction to the European Constitution, explains its main features, provides a glossary of technical jargon and directs users to other useful links.

The Government has already produced an guide to the Constitution and will soon publish a White Paper on the subject.

The National Forum on Europe will also be holding public meetings over the next few months.