President McAleese must not speak out at her own behest

I refer to the recent remarks made by President McAleese with regard to the Nice Treaty, with the implication that there is a moral obligation on the Irish people to vote in favour of it.

Article 13.7 of the Constitution requires the President to consult with the Council of State regarding any public statement that she intends to make and that statement must then be approved by the Government.

If she has acted outside the constitutional boundaries of her office, should therefore consider her position.