Ahern refuses to rule out re-run of EU referendum

Bertie Ahern

Speaking on Wednesday after the Taoiseach confirmed that a referendum on the EU Constitution will be held in 2006, Sinn Féin Dáil leader, Caoimhghín Ó Caoláín TD expressed concern over the Taoiseach's unwillingness to rule out a second referendum if the people vote against the Constitution.

"After I questioned the Taoiseach he confirmed that a referendum on the EU Constitution will be held in 2006. But he refused to rule out the possibility of a second referendum if the first one does not go the way he wishes it to go," sad Ó Caoláin. "I am quite concerned that the Taoiseach may not respect the democratic will of the people.

"Sinn Féin will be campaigning for a NO vote on the EU Constitution but if the people vote for the Constitution, then we will respect their will.

Unfortunately, the Taoiseach has not given us any such commitment if there is a No vote.

"If the people vote against the EU Constitution, then the Taoiseach must accept this as the will of the people and he must not force a second referendum as he did with the Nice referendum."