Czech deal paves way for Lisbon ratification

THE chances of the Lisbon Treaty entering into force took a major step forward last night as EU leaders agreed with the Czechs on an opt-out from the Charter of Fundamental Rights.

Now the only hurdle is the judgment of the Czech constitutional court that is hearing objections from a number of senators and the Czech President, Vaclav Klaus, and is expected to give its ruling on Tuesday.

Czech Prime Minister Jan Fischer told EU leaders at their summit that the agreement had the full support of President Klaus and he has undertaken to sign the treaty once the court clears it, as they are expected to do.