"I know that the majority are still opposed, but there is a period of consideration underway and the people who matter in (Ireland) are currently thinking about it."
Alright, I know he said "Britain" not Ireland, but the parallel is exact.
Today's news on The World at One that there will be a second referendum by October 2009 (after a period of the EU's inimitable combination of charm, threats, bribery and fear-stoking "consideration") shows precisely the regard that Barroso, Brian Cowen the Irish Prime Minister and others have for democracy. Agree with us or we run and re-run the vote until you do. No is not an option.