Ireland blocks further EU integration

Published time: 13 Jun, 2008 22:54Edited time: 14 Jun, 2008 02:54

Supporters of the 'No Vote' celebrate after the Lisbon Treaty was rejected (Photo by Paul McErlane, AFP).

Irish Prime Minister Brian Cowen has said that his government 'accepts the verdict of the Irish people' after the country voted against the EU reform treaty. The vote is a major blow to the EU as all members are required

Ireland is so far the only country to hold a referendum.

The European Commission President, Jose Manuel Barroso, said EU leaders will meet at a summit next week to decide how to proceed.