Greens back Lisbon Treaty

The Green Party have voted to campaign for a 'Yes' in the Lisbon Treaty referendum at their special conference in Dublin today.

A two thirds majority was reached in favour of the Treaty.

Green Party Leader and Environment Minister John Gormley said: "Today has been one filled with passionate debate. I am proud that the Green Party has reached this position and I am pleased that we can now go forward and fully support a Yes in the referendum on October 2.

"Lisbon will empower European states to take real action on climate change, and I hope that the EU – strengthened by the Lisbon Treaty – can lead global efforts in this area at the UN conference in Copenhagen in December.

European Affairs Spokesperson Senator Deirdre de Burca said: "Today's vote showed that although a proportion of our membership is still very concerned about the shortcomings of the European Union – and the Lisbon Treaty – a considerable majority of members recognise the EU's considerable achievements and the important international role it must and will play over the coming years in the areas of climate change, energy security and human rights.

"I am happy that our party, for the first time, will campaign in favour of a European Treaty, and will join the vast majority of our sister green parties across Europe in promoting a positive view of EU membership."