A simple formula could protect our rights from intrusion by EU

TO JUDGE by recent newspaper reports, the Government has scored a remarkable diplomatic triumph. They have revived hopes for a European constitution. Where there was doubt, they seem to have brought faith.

A few months ago the constitution project was facing years in cold storage. The Irish presidency was adopting the 'expect nothing and you won't be disappointed' strategy and playing down any prospects of agreement.

Bertie Ahern and Brian Cowen deserve credit. Probably no other Irish Government, perhaps no other European one, would be as likely to secure a deal. But they've left the Irish electorate with a problem. The Nice Treaty, as we all remember, was a rather awkward affair. It had to go before the people twice. And there was widespread anger at the Government for not explaining the issues.