Creighton advises referendum on Fiscal Compact before summer

The Minister of State for European Affairs Lucinda Creighton has said she would like to see a referendum vote on the Fiscal Treaty happen before the summer.

Ms Creighton said, in terms of investor confidence and our relationship with other EU member states, it is important to clarify Ireland's position.

Last week, the Taoiseach Enda Kenny said the Government will set a date for the referendum "in due course".

Mr Kenny added that it is very important that voters be fully informed about the importance of the treaty.

However, the Minister of State for European Affairs has said the sooner a date is confirmed, the better.