McAleese confirms McGrath letter

Áras an Uachtaráin has confirmed a letter asking President Mary McAleese to intervene over the Lisbon treaty has been received…

Áras an Uachtaráin has confirmed a letter asking President Mary McAleese to intervene over the Lisbon treaty has been received.

A spokesman for the President confirmed the letter from Government-supporting TD Finian McGrath had arrived but refused to comment further.

Mr McGrath has asked the President to call a Council of State meeting on the issue of the Treaty.

Mr McGrath, the only Independent voting with the Government who is opposing the Lisbon Treaty, raised the question of whether the treaty breaches Article 9 of the Constitution, which holds that fidelity to the Nation and loyalty to the State are fundamental political duties of all citizens, according to reports.

READ MORE
Mr McGrath has asked President McAleese to call a Council of State meeting
Mr McGrath has asked President McAleese to call a Council of State meeting

The Council of State advises the President on constitutional issues, and its advice can lead to the President referring proposed legislation to the Supreme Court to test its constitutionality.

Speaking at the announcement of a campaign against the Lisbon Treaty in Dublin back in December, Mr McGrath said his agreement to support the Government was in relation to "specific issues" in his constituency that did not include the treaty.

Taoiseach Brian Cowen has taken a strong stance on campaigning for a Yes vote, however.

At the recent unveiling of Fianna Fáil’s referendum campaign, he warned against any party TD who might consider repeating Eamon Ó Cuív's decision to vote against the first Nice Treaty referendum.

Jason Michael

Jason Michael

Jason Michael is a journalist with The Irish Times