The comments come as reports suggest the Irish government is prepared to hold a second referendum on the treaty, having secured itself exceptions for certain policy areas, such as abortion. (politics.co.uk)
This has implications for two important things: the balance of power in the negotiations; and the possibility of holding a second referendum. (blog.politics.ox.ac.uk)
The Irish government appeared close to admitting it would hold a second referendum on the treaty this afternoon. (politics.co.uk)