In a couple of weeks Ireland is being asked to vote a second time (apparently we got the wrong answer last time) on the Lisbon treaty - or the regurgitated EU constitution.
Virtually all the other governments in Europe have ratified this treaty, putting a lot of pressure on Ireland to do the same. With the economy in a mess, many think that Ireland may vote yes this time.
some of the things the treaty does:
Establish an EU president for a 2 and a half year term. Tony Blair is a candidate for this position, and with Sarkozys support, hes likely to get it.
Establishes a foreign policy post called the 'High representative' - She/He will speak for Europe as a single entity on foreign policy matters.
Countries would lose their commissioners for 1 term out of every 3.
Changes the voting laws removing many national vetos (but not defence or right to life issues). Voting would be based on population bases rather than statehood, (ie. big population like france, UK, Germany more votes, small population like Ireland, Holland, Denmark less votes)
Gives the Union more power over a countries Judicial system and law enforcement (though Ireland have negotiated an opt-out from this). Gives the Union more say over Climate change and the environment.
National parliaments will be included in the legislative process and the size of the commission will be reduced making it more democratic.
Passes the Charter of Human Rights into law and makes it legally binding to all member states.
How would you vote? This affects all of Europe, not just Ireland.
Virtually all the other governments in Europe have ratified this treaty, putting a lot of pressure on Ireland to do the same. With the economy in a mess, many think that Ireland may vote yes this time.
some of the things the treaty does:
Establish an EU president for a 2 and a half year term. Tony Blair is a candidate for this position, and with Sarkozys support, hes likely to get it.
Establishes a foreign policy post called the 'High representative' - She/He will speak for Europe as a single entity on foreign policy matters.
Countries would lose their commissioners for 1 term out of every 3.
Changes the voting laws removing many national vetos (but not defence or right to life issues). Voting would be based on population bases rather than statehood, (ie. big population like france, UK, Germany more votes, small population like Ireland, Holland, Denmark less votes)
Gives the Union more power over a countries Judicial system and law enforcement (though Ireland have negotiated an opt-out from this). Gives the Union more say over Climate change and the environment.
National parliaments will be included in the legislative process and the size of the commission will be reduced making it more democratic.
Passes the Charter of Human Rights into law and makes it legally binding to all member states.
How would you vote? This affects all of Europe, not just Ireland.
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