MEP accuses Sarkozy of interfering with democracy

Independent MEP Marian Harkin has accused the French President of interfering with Irish democracy.

The criticism comes ahead of Nicolas Sarkozy's visit here on Monday, which he says is about listening to and understanding the Irish people's rejection of the Lisbon Treaty.

In an interview with the Irish Times, Mr Sarkozy says he wants to find the right ways to address the concerns that Ireland has with Lisbon.

Speaking on Ocean FM this morning, Ms Harkin said Mr Sarkozy must understand that it's not up to him or anybody else to decide whether the Irish people should vote on the issue again.