Lisbon Treaty

[Macy]

As far as I know, any alteration to a treaty requires a referendum, but to add to the confusion, there's also an Article 48 in Lisbon that allows it to amend itself without the requirements of each country. So, if it's critical to Lisbon by completely changing it, we'll be voting, but if it's just seen as an add-on, we mightn't. A very grey area, but I'd say there'll be a Lisbon 3.

Yeah, appears if it isn't too big a change they may get away without Lisbon 3, and they'll try and avoid that at all costs. I've no doubt any change will at least be challenged by someone, so another bit of uncertainty to add to the mix!

[mypost]

As far as I know, any alteration to a treaty requires a referendum, but to add to the confusion, there's also an Article 48 in Lisbon that allows it to amend itself without the requirements of each country. So, if it's critical to Lisbon by completely changing it, we'll be voting, but if it's just seen as an add-on, we mightn't. A very grey area, but I'd say there'll be a Lisbon 3.

There won't be. Lisbon has been ratified by the Former Independent Republic Of Ireland. The treaty is self-amending, and the European Constitution takes precedence over ours. Therefore a referendum here is not required.