The solution is a Lisbon referendum with options

TAOISEACH Brian Cowen agreed with French president Nicolas Sarkozy at the recent European Council summit to discuss the drafting of opt-outs to the Lisbon Treaty, specifically in line with the proposal I made earlier this month.

I proposed an extended plebiscite on the treaty in Ireland where we would have a referendum on yes or no to the treaty, while on the same day holding consultative referenda on key opt-in/opt- out issues such as the EU charter of fundamental rights, European security and defence policy and other potentially sensitive areas for us.

In proposing this, I am attempting to isolate the crucial thematic areas in need of rational and neutral debate in Ireland. I would be encouraging Ireland to opt in concerning these policy issues, but voters deserve the right to make their own informed decision following open and unemotional discussion.