Cowen rules out third Lisbon referendum

The Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, has insisted that the Government will not try to re-run the Lisbon Treaty referendum a third time if the electorate votes 'no' again on Friday.

Speaking at a press conference in Dublin today, Mr Cowen also reiterated his view that a 'yes' vote would help Ireland's economic recovery.

He said Friday's vote was about the future of the country and not about him personally or the Fianna Fáil-led Government.