Minister for European Affairs Noel Treacy welcomes Slovenian Parliament's approval for European Constitution

Mr. Noel Treacy, T.D., Minister for European Affairs, has given a warm welcome to the news that the Parliament of Slovenia has overwhelmingly endorsed the European Constitution.

“This news from Ljubljana is a clear indication of continued positive momentum in the process of ratifying the European Constitution.  While most Member States will be ratifying the Constitution through their parliaments alone, at least ten, including Ireland, will be putting it before the people by way of referendum.  The first such referendum will take place in Spain later this month.

While no decision has yet been taken on the timing of a referendum in Ireland, work is currently under way on the wording and the Government will be seeking to build a consensus with the opposition parties.

The Government is acutely aware of the immense significance of  the referendum and will consequently be leading a vigorous and informed debate”, stated Minister Treacy.

79 members of the 90 seat Parliament voted in favour of the Treaty, with only 4 rejecting it and 7 abstaining. Slovenia is the third EU Country to give the go ahead for the Constitution, Lithuania and Hungary already having completed the process.

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2 February 2005
Press Office