If it’s no, here’s how Cowen can explain it away to the Euro heads

IF IT’S yes tomorrow, cue mutual backslapping all round. Brian Cowen will be owed 26 glasses of Leffe beer by his counterparts at the next European Council meeting in Brussels. And then the Germans, French and Brits will get down to the serious business of actually deciding the interpretations of the Lisbon Treaty — and who gets the plum jobs.

If, on the other hand, it’s another no, Cowen will be asked to give some explanation. He could do worse than send a candid note to the Berlaymont along the following lines.

Dear Fellow Heads of Government, Ireland’s commitment to the union remains unshakeable. During our referendum campaign, even the most vocal opponents of the Lisbon Treaty were at pains to underscore their pro-European credentials. In 1973, when we joined, we were the paupers of Europe, lacking in self-confidence. No longer — and our people appreciate the role Europe has played in that reversal of fortune.