Doyle warns of EU constitution rejection 'domino effect'

France’s decision to vote against joining the proposed EU constitution could have major ramifications for Ireland's vote, according to Fine Gael MEP Avril Doyle.

The charter must be agreed by all 25 member states before it can come into force.

The Taoiseach Bertie Ahern is against renegotiation and has insisted Ireland's referendum on the treaty will go ahead next year as planned.

But Avril Doyle believes it could end up a pointless exercise. "The domino effect from a major country like France saying no would impact on other countries," warned the Wexford politician.

"We have nine countries who have already said yes including the Spanish through a referendum. What effect will the vote have on the rest who have yet to ratify?" she asked.