Ireland in crunch EU treaty vote

The Irish Republic is set to hold a referendum on whether to ratify the European Union reform treaty, in a vote anxiously watched across the EU.

All other 26 member states have left the issue to their parliaments, but Ireland is obliged to hold a popular vote on changes to its constitution.

All of the main Irish parties back the treaty but the No campaign has been putting up a strong challenge.

With many voters undecided, opinion polls suggest the result will be close.

Voters will be asked whether or not they approve an amendment to the constitution which would allow Ireland to ratify the Treaty of Lisbon.

The treaty's main provisions include a smaller European Commission, the removal of the national veto in more policy areas, a new president of the European Council and a strengthened foreign affairs post.

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