belfastuniguy

Nearly 90% of the UK population watch the BBC or listen to it everyday, the issue of people not watching is a non-issue here. There's a tax specifically to pay for it, but it isn't government run. That's always been an utterly strange concept to me. PBS often recieves government grants, but it relies largely on private donations.quote> It allows for quality and well funded programming that serves the needs of the people, not a government. Hence the BBC has a reputation that no other broadcaster has yet to achieve, that and it's the largest broadcaster in the world. It's testament to the quality it delivers and respect it has garnered....even PBS show BBC News. It's also a model that most countries in the world follow.

Obama shelves Europe missile plan Barack Obama: "I'm confident... we have strengthened America's national security" US President Barack Obama has shelved plans for controversial bases in Poland and the Czech Republic in a major overhaul of missile defence in Europe. The bases are to be scrapped after a review of the threat from Iran. Mr Obama said there would be a "proven, cost-effective" system using land- and sea-based interceptors against Iran's short- and medium-range missile threat. Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has welcomed the US decision, calling it a "responsible move". Russia had always seen the shield as a threat. However, there has been criticism of the decision in conservative circles in the US. The US signed a deal in August 2008 with Poland to site 10 interceptors at a base near the Baltic Sea, and with the Czech Republic to build a radar station on its territory. ANALYSIS Kevin Connolly, BBC News, Washington It would be hard to invent a news story that tied together more strategic and political issues than the Obama administration's decision to change its stance on the deployment of a missile defence shield in Eastern Europe. It touches on Washington's assessment of Iran's military capabilities. There is an underlying assumption that Tehran's capacity for mounting warheads on long-range missiles does not pose an immediate strategic headache. It also sends a signal to the peoples of Central Europe about how President Barack Obama proposes to manage the post Cold War order in their neck of the woods in the next few years. And it raises questions about the administration's much-talked-about desire to "hit the reset" button on its relationship with Russia. Will overhaul benefit US? The US had said the missile shield would be fully operational by 2012. But President Obama this year ordered a review of the defence system, which was strongly backed by his predecessor George W Bush. 'Stronger and smarter' On Thursday, President Obama said in a live TV address that the change was needed to "deploy a defence system that best responds to the threats we face". He said a review had shown the need to switch strategy to defending against the short- and medium-range missiles that Iran could use to target Europe. Twice Mr Obama referred to the need for a system that was "proven and cost effective". He said the new approach would provide "a stronger, smarter and swifter defence" of US and allied forces in Europe. Mr Obama said he had spoken to both the Czech Republic and Poland and stressed his commitments to their defence. But he said again that Russia's concerns about the old system were "entirely unfounded". White House spokesman Robert Gibbs later stressed the overhaul was "not about Russia". Although the White House said the US "no longer planned to move forward" with the old shield scheme for Poland and the Czech Republic, Defence Secretary Robert Gates stressed the US was not abandoning missile defence of Europe. He said negotiations were under way with both nations about deploying upgraded SM-3 interceptors from 2015. The first phase of the new strategy, he said, would be to deploy "current and proven missile defence systems in the next two years", including the sea-based Aegis and the current SM-3. Iran says its missile development programme is solely for scientific, surveillance or defensive purposes, but there are concerns in the West and among Iran's neighbours that the rockets could be used to carry nuclear weapons. 'Responsible' Mr Medvedev said the US decision was a "positive" one. He said he would discuss the missile defence issue with President Obama during a visit to the United Nations in New York next week. Mr Medvedev said in a TV address: "We value the US president's responsible approach towards implementing our agreements. I am ready to continue the dialogue." The two countries are currently in talks about reducing their nuclear weapons stockpiles, and the US move could influence Russia to be more co-operative, correspondents say. Mr Medvedev said there were now "good conditions" for talks on missile reduction. Gates on missile shield overhaul However, there has already been some criticism in the US. John Bolton, who was undersecretary of state for arms control and international security under President Bush, said the move was "unambiguously a bad decision". He said: "This gives away an important defensive mechanism against threats from countries like Iran and other rogue states, not only for the US but for Europe as well. "It is a concession to the Russians with absolutely nothing in return." Nato Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said the US move was "a positive step", Associated Press reported.quote>

Love it when Farage was rebuked on RTE, was hilarious, I literally LOLed at him. He's an idiot.

Ireland backs EU's Lisbon Treaty Results so far show a clear swing to the "Yes" camp Irish voters have strongly endorsed the Lisbon Treaty, which is aimed at streamlining decision-making in the 27-member European Union. Official results showed 67% of the electorate voted "Yes". Irish Prime Minister Brian Cowen hailed a "clear and resounding" endorsement. The EU Commission called it a "vote of confidence" in the EU. Nearly all the EU states have ratified Lisbon. It came 16 months after the first Irish vote, which rejected the Treaty. The scale of the expected victory is important to Brussels Gavin Hewitt BBC Europe Editor Read more in Hewitt on Europe It cannot take effect unless all member states ratify it. The only other countries yet to ratify Lisbon are the Czech Republic and Poland. But the parliaments of both countries have approved the treaty. "The Irish people have spoken with a clear and resounding voice," Mr Cowen said in a brief statement to reporters. "It is a good day for Ireland and a good day for Europe." "The Irish people showed an Ireland embracing her future with Europe," he said. LISBON TREATY Creates new post of EU president (President of European Council) New post of High Representative for Foreign Affairs More decisions by majority vote, rather than unanimity Ratified by all member states except Czech Republic, Ireland and Poland Only Ireland held a referendum on it Took a decade of negotiations Was intended to take effect in January 2009 Send us your comments If Irish vote 'Yes' - what next? In quotes: Reactions to vote Ireland was the only EU member state to hold a referendum on Lisbon, though there have been calls for referendums in several countries. The leader of the anti-Lisbon lobby group Libertas, Declan Ganley, said the result marked a "very convincing win" for the "Yes" camp. Counting started at centres across the country at 0900 (0800 GMT) and results are being relayed to the national count centre in Dublin Castle. EU hails 'victory' Swedish Foreign Minister Carl Bildt, whose country currently holds the EU presidency, called the vote "an important victory for Ireland and for all of Europe". He said it was just a matter of time until the EU "finally can push the button for the better European co-operation that the Lisbon Treaty will give us". Brian Cowen: "The Irish have supported reforms so the EU can become more efficient and more effective" The European Commission President, Jose Manuel Barroso, praised the Irish "vote of confidence" in the EU, which he said showed a "desire to be a wholehearted member". The Czech Republic's Eurosceptic President, Vaclav Klaus, said he would not sign the treaty until his country's Constitutional Court had pronounced on its validity. Irish opinion is thought to have swung behind the "Yes" vote this time because of the severity of the economic downturn, as well as the legal "guarantees" on Irish sovereignty that the EU pledged after the first referendum. The legally binding "guarantees" state that Lisbon will not affect key areas of Irish sovereignty, such as taxation, military neutrality and family matters such as abortion - significant issues in last year's campaign in Ireland. But they have not yet been attached to the treaty. The treaty is intended to make EU institutions better suited to the enlarged bloc of 27. Declan Ganley: "Politically a masterful campaign" Opponents see Lisbon as part of a federalist agenda that threatens national sovereignty. In last year's vote, 46.6% of Irish voted "Yes" and 53.4% "No", and the rejection of the treaty plunged the EU into political gridlock. The Irish anti-Lisbon group Coir said on Saturday: "We are extremely disappointed that the voice of the people was not heard the first time around." Three million people were eligible to vote in the referendum. Turnout was higher than 50% when polling stations closed at 2200 on Friday. All of the republic's major parties campaigned for a "Yes" vote except the nationalist Sinn Fein. The party believes rejecting the treaty would mean a more democratic EU.quote> Ireland EU Yes vote 'good for UK' Irish voters rejected the treaty in a referendum 18 months ago UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown has welcomed the "Yes" vote on the EU's Lisbon Treaty in the Republic of Ireland referendum. Mr Brown said the treaty was "good for the UK and good for Europe". David Cameron will now face pressure to say if a Tory government would hold a referendum if the treaty is in force. The Irish electorate produced a 67.1% "Yes" vote, leaving only Poland and the Czech Republic to sign the treaty aimed at streamlining EU institutions. In a statement, Mr Brown said: "I welcome the decision of the Irish people on the Lisbon Treaty. "The treaty is good for the UK and good for Europe. We can now work together to focus on the issues that matter most to Europeans - a sustained economic recovery, security, tackling global poverty, and action on climate change." 'Potential divisions' The Conservative leader has previously said a Tory government would call a referendum if the treaty has not been ratified by all 27 EU countries. Poland is expected to sign within days, while there is a legal challenge against the treaty in the Czech Republic. Both countries' parliaments have approved the treaty. A poll of 2,205 Conservative Party members, for the Independent newspaper, found more than eight out of 10 wanted a referendum even if Lisbon is ratified. The Conservativehome.com survey found 55% would want a referendum to "renegotiate EU position", while 29% would want Lisbon declared illegitimate and a referendum on opting out. "The findings suggest that the damaging divisions on Europe which destabilised the last Tory government could resurface at the party's annual conference in Manchester," the newspaper suggests. quote>

(3.46pm) Former Taoiseach and Head of the European Commission Delegation to the US John Bruton welcomed the vote. Mr Bruton said: 'This is a huge relief. Now the way is clear to get on with the real work of restoring the lost dynamism of the shared economy of Europe and Ireland.' (3.40pm) Dublin South Central (57.97%), Cork East (66.10%) and Wicklow (70.75%) all return Yes votes. (3.38pm) RTÉ's David McCullagh says that with just five constituencies left to declare, the passing of the treaty is beyond doubt, even if every voter in all five remaining constituencies voted No. (3.37pm) Patricia McKenna said: 'Fears and insecurities of voters were skilfully tapped into by an illegally over-funded Yes campaign.' (3.35pm) The Cork South West (67.17%) and Cork North West (69.53%) constituencies vote Yes. (3.28pm) Two more Yes votes in the Taoiseach's home patch of Laois-Offaly (73.17%) and Roscommon-South Leitrim (65.97%). (3.25pm) Serbian Foreign Minister Vuk Jeremic has hailed the result and said EU hopefuls in the western Balkans would also benefit from it. Mr Jeremic said the treaty 'has opened doors to Europe that will have space for all European nations, including those from the western Balkans.' He added: 'I believe that we all have reason to be happy for the success of the Irish referendum and to get down to fulfilling all criteria for EU membership with even more energy.' (3.19pm) José Manuel Barroso, who was a wearing a green tie for the occasion, told RTÉ's Europe Correspondent Tony Connelly that he hopes the treaty can be fully ratified in the near future. (3.17pm) British Prime Minister Gordon Brown said: 'I welcome the decision of the Irish people on the Lisbon Treaty. 'The treaty is good for the UK and good for Europe. We can now work together to focus on the issues that matter most to Europeans: a sustained economic recovery, security, tackling global poverty, and action on climate change.' (3.15pm) Czech President Vaclav Klaus has declined to say if he will sign the Lisbon Treaty after a constitutional court review. (3.10pm) The American Chamber of Commerce in Ireland and Women for Europe have both welcomed the result. (3.07pm) Two more Yes votes on opposite sides of the country in Dublin North East (63.46%) and Galway West (66.34%). (3pm) 69.72% of voters in Kildare North have voted in favour of the treaty. (2.58pm) With 29 of 43 counts completed, the Yes vote is at 67.1%. (2.52pm) There has been a 23.41% swing in Mayo as 61.71% of the constituency voted Yes. That Yes figure is identical to the No figure in 2008. (2.50pm) Meath East votes in favour by 72.31% to 27.69%. (2.47pm) Click here for details on the results as they emerge. (2.43pm) The people of Wexford have voted in favour by 65.20% to 34.80%. (2.41pm) Following this result, it is now up to the Czech Republic and Poland to officially ratify the Lisbon Treaty. (2.40pm) As the Taoiseach speaks at Government Buildings, two more Yes votes emerge in Louth and Dublin Central. (2.37pm) Taoiseach Brian Cowen has formally declared victory for the Yes side in the Lisbon Treaty referendum. Mr Cowen said the vote was a 'declaration of intent to remain at the heart of Europe'. He added that it would bring about 'a stronger and fairer Ireland and Europe'. (2.35pm) Dublin North West votes Yes by 55.04% to 44.96%. Galway East also votes in favour of the treaty by 68.11% to 31.89%. (2.32pm) Tánaiste Mary Coughlan said: 'Nationally we are delighted. I just spoke to the Taoiseach and we are very pleased it's going to be won.' (2.31pm) The result for Limerick East shows a Yes vote of 67.41%. (2.28pm) Dublin North votes Yes by 72.68% to No 27.32%, as does Dublin South West by a tighter margin of 58.91% to 41.09%. Dublin South West had the highest No vote in 2008. (2.23pm) Meath West votes Yes by 64.88% to 35.12% and Limerick West does likewise by 69.32% to 30.68%. (2.18pm) Dublin South East has followed other constituencies in the capital by voting Yes by 78.67% to 21.33%. (2.16pm) Minister for Defence Willie O'Dea has said there would have been devastating consequences for the Government had there been a defeat a second time. (2.12pm) Two more strong Yes votes in Dún Laoghaire and Kerry South. The margin in Dún Laoghaire was 81.17% to 18.83%, while in Kerry South it was 63.58% to 36.42%. Fianna Fáil TD Kerry North Tom McEllstrim said there was a big swing from the No side to the Yes side because of the economic difficulty that Ireland found itself in. (2.10pm) There has been a resounding Yes in Dublin South, with 81.67% voting in favour and only 18.33% against. (2.07pm) RTÉ's Southern Editor has said today could be renamed 'Swing Saturday'. (2.05pm) Clare has voted Yes by 72.32% to 27.68%. (1.59pm) The joy of being chosen as the Best News Broadcaster is starting to get to Sean O'Rourke, as he has called himself Rachael English twice today. (1.58pm) IFA President Padraig Walshe has welcomed the Yes vote and thanked farm families for turning out in large numbers to contribute to the result. (1.57pm) Click here for details on the results as they emerge. (1.54pm) The prime minister of Sweden, holder of the EU presidency, said he would meet the Czech Prime Minister and European Commission President on Wednesday to discuss the way forward on the treaty. Fredrik Reinfeldt said: 'Today is a good day for Europe. It has been a long journey. Now the presidency will be active to reach all the way.' (1.52pm) Cork North Central has voted for the treaty by 55.81% to 44.19%. The constituency voted No in 2008 and there was a swing to the Yes side of 20.25%.quote>

Live - Lisbon Referendum Count Saturday, 03 October, 2009 (1.46pm) Minister for Health Mary Harney said the scale of the Yes vote is remarkable. She said the vote will play a part in the economic recovery. (1.43pm) Voters in Dublin West have voted Yes by 68.5% to 31.5%. (1.40pm) Two more Yes votes in Cavan-Monaghan (62:38) and Kerry North (64:36). Both voted No in 2008. (1.37pm) European Commission President José Manuel Barroso says the result 'shows the value of European solidarity'. UKIP leader Nigel Farage, who called for a No vote, compared the referendum to a corrupt election in Zimbabwe or Afghanistan. (1.35pm) With nine constituencies in, the overall picture is 64.8% Yes and 35.2% No. (1.34pm) Voters in Sligo-North Leitrim have approved the treaty by 64.45% to No 35.55%. (1.33pm) Click here for details on the results as they emerge. (1.32pm) Cork South Central has voted in favour of the treaty by 66.85% to 33.15%. (1.30pm) Dublin Mid-West has voted Yes by 61.49% to 38.51%. (1.29pm) Check our latest video clips here (1.27pm) There has been a strong Yes vote in Waterford. A total of 68.53% (30,744) voted Yes and 31.47% (14,116) voted No. There was a 22.85% swing to the Yes side. Minister Martin Cullen said he was delighted with what was a very good result for the country and for Europe. (1.23pm) Donegal South West has voted No. The margin of victory was just 171 votes. 50.27% (15,794) voted against the treaty and 49.73% (15,623) voted in favour. (1.20pm) Tipperary North has followed its neighbour in approving the treaty. A total of 70.38% (25,768) voted Yes and 29.62% (10,846) voted No. It represented a swing of 20.58%. Turnout was 52%. (1.17pm) IBEC Director General Danny McCoy said: 'The vote will lead to an EU that is better able to face the challenges ahead and reaffirms Ireland's long-standing, positive and constructive role in Europe. Today's decision is good for Ireland and good for Europe.' (1.15pm) Labour leader Eamon Gilmore has said no-one in the Yes camp had contemplated such a large margin. (1.13pm) In Donegal South West there could be as little as 200 votes between the No and the Yes sides. (1.10pm) Donegal North East has rejected the Lisbon Treaty. 51.46% (15,005) voted No and 48.54% (14,156) voted Yes. There was a swing to the Yes side of 13.24%. (1.03pm) Click here for details on the results as they emerge. (1.01pm) Kildare North has recorded a Yes vote. A total of 76.19% (32,012) voted Yes and 23.81% (10,002) voted No. The constituency voted Yes in 2008, but the margin increased by 21.57%. (12:59pm) Campaign Director of Ireland for Europe Pat Cox said: 'This was a mature vote in which the Irish people rejected those voices telling them to make the referendum a verdict on the government and on national policies.' Mr Cox was President of the European Parliament from 2002-2004. (12.55pm) Dublin Central seems to have swung to a 61:39 Yes vote this year. (12.53pm) The treaty looks set to be carried in Mayo, with tallies indicating a 62:38 vote for Yes, which is a reversal of 2008. (12.45pm) Tipperary South is the first result in. 68.42% (22,712) voted Yes, while 31.58% (10,483) voted No. The change since 2008 is 21.63%. There were 184 spoiled votes. (12.43pm) Only ten of the 43 constituencies voted in favour of Lisbon in 2008. However, this time there will be a majority in nearly every constituency. (12.37pm) Donegal TD Niall Blaney has said the strong No vote in Donegal North East was disappointing, although there had been a significant shift to the Yes side. (12.33pm) More good news for Taoiseach Brian Cowen is that the Yes vote has increased 16% in Laois-Offaly this year. The Yes vote in Offaly, Mr Cowen's county, is 75.6%. The Yes vote in Laois is 66.87%. (12.29pm) Swedish Foreign Minister Carl Bildt said: 'It is an important victory for Ireland and for all of Europe.' Mr Bildt, whose country holds the EU presidency, said that it was just a matter of time until the union can 'finally can push the button for the better European cooperation that the Lisbon Treaty will give us'. (12.27pm) Tallies indicate a 60:40 Yes vote in both Galway constituencies. All boxes have been opened. (12.24pm) In Cork South West, all 140 boxes are open and a formal count is under way. Tallies indicate a 60:40 Yes vote. (12.22pm) Socialist MEP Joe Higgins has said the Finance Minister is already rowing back on the promise that a Yes vote would mean jobs and economic recovery. (12.18pm) Anti-Lisbon campaigner Richard Boyd Barrett said: 'I don't think it means a surge of support for the Government. I think the Government have a lot to live up to suggesting passing Lisbon would deliver jobs and economic recovery.' (12.16pm) Several voters were hoping for divine intervention, as another two miraculous medals were found wrapped inside two ballot papers marked Yes from Ballyfin in Co Laois. (12.12pm) In Louth, the constituency of Minister for Justice Dermot Ahern, the treaty is expected to be carried by 58:42. However, there was a strong No vote in urban, working class areas. (12.10pm) RTÉ's Europe Editor Sean Whelan has said there will be an audible sigh of relief in Brussels, but there is a sense of anti-climax at Dublin Castle as the mass ranks of the media had expected a closer race. (12.06pm) For more detailed information on tallies click here (12.03pm) Labour Party leader Eamon Gilmore welcomed the 'sensible decision' of the Irish public. (12pm) Tánaiste Mary Coughlan said: 'I would still be very cautious at this stage. It's very close to call. A lot more people changed their minds this time round. There was greater clarity and we had a very good Yes campaign here in Donegal South West.' (11.58am) Minister for Finance Brian Lenihan said there was a 'national cohesion behind the Yes vote'. He added: 'The Government is not engaged in any celebratory parties. We are in a very difficult place (economically) and that's precisely why people have voted Yes.' (11.57am) Declan Ganley told Marian Finucane that Dick Roche had played a blinder in the campaign because he had stayed out of the public eye. Mr Roche responded by saying that if RTÉ got out of Dublin 4, it would have found him out and about around the country. (11.55am) David McCullagh reports that only Donegal North East looks like voting No. Turnout was 50%, but a official result is not expected until 2.30pm. (11.52am) A miraculous medal and a driving licence turned up in boxes in Meath West, where early predictions are that a Yes vote will be carried. (11.47am) Turnout was up 5% on last time in Limerick East. There is still a high No vote in working class areas of the city, where the No vote was as high as 70%. (11.45am) Tallies indicate a strong Yes vote in South Roscommon, which is the home land of Minister Michael Finneran. Some boxes were as high as 90% Yes. (11.43am) Former Danish MEP Jens Peter Bonde, who had campaigned for a No Vote, said: 'Friday 2 October 2009 will be seen as a sad day in European history.' (11.41am) For more detailed information on tallies click here (11.40am) Patricia McKenna of the People's Movement said: 'Today's result was inevitable. People voted not for the Lisbon Treaty but for economic recovery, jobs and EU membership.' (11.38am) In Dublin North Central, tallys indicate that it will be 60:40 Yes, as opposed to 60:40 No last time. (11.34am) Sinn Féin's Vice President Mary Lou McDonald told Marian Finucane that Fine Gael and Labour had helped to secure the Taoiseach in office for another three years. (11.29am) All boxes are opened in Kerry North and tallies are indicating a 60:40 margin in favour of the Yes side. Turnout was 50%. Sinn Féin TD for North Kerry Martin Ferris said the campaign run by Yes side put fear into voters and had a huge effect. (11.27am) Declan Ganley has told Bryan Dobson that he will take time to reflect upon his political future. He said he received a text message this morning from a Fine Gael 'operative' telling him to 'go quietly'. (11.25am) Tallies from Dublin South West indicate a clear Yes vote with 60% of boxes open. The constituency had the highest No vote in 2008. (11.20am) Declan Ganley said the country had 'made a mistake', but he paid tribute to the Taoiseach's 'excellent' campaign, which he said had made 'vassals' of the Opposition. (11.17am) Minister for European Affairs Dick Roche said: 'I am confident it will be carried by close to two-to-one nationally. It is overwhelming.' (11.14am) In Donegal North East, tallies suggest a big swing to the Yes side. The No vote was 64.7% in the first referendum. (11.08am) Click on the RTÉ player on the top of this page for the first of RTÉ News' three Lisbon Specials. (11.05am) Libertas leader Declan Ganley has said the result marks a 'very convincing win' for the Yes camp. He added: ' (10.58am) Early tallies in Dublin South West are indicating a Yes vote. The constituency had the highest No vote in 2008 with 65.1% opposing the treaty. (10.52am) Fine Gael's Lucinda Creighton said there was a comfort in voting No in 2008 because of the fear created by anti-Lisbon campaigners. (10.48am) The minister also found the time to praise Sean O'Rourke for his award for Best News Broadcaster at PPI Radio awards. (10.45am) Micheál Martin has said the 'information deficit and knowledge gap' was a key reason Ireland voted No in 2008. However, Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin rejected that. (10.36am) Sinn Fein's Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said there was no doubt that a lot of fear had been engendered as to the consequences of voting No. (10.33am) RTÉ's David McCullagh said a No vote would have been 'absolutely catastrophic for the Government'. (10.30am) Libertas leader Declan Ganley will make a statement at the RDS count centre at 11am. (10.25) Socialist Party MEP Joe Higgins said that if the treaty is passed it will make it 1-1 and he joked that 'there should be a replay'. (10.23am) Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin has said it looks like it will be a Yes vote and that this will be good for Ireland. He said: 'I am delighted for the country. It looks like a convincing win for the 'Yes' side on this occasion.' (10.20am) The tradition of spoiling votes is still strong, with one voter in Tipperary South asking 'what part of no do you not understand?' (10.18am) Anti-Lisbon campaigner Richard Greene of Cóir has conceded that if tallies from around the country are accurate the treaty will be carried. (10.15am) 90% of boxes have been opened in Dublin South. It had a Yes vote of 62.9% last time out. (10.10am) In Dún Laoghaire, which had the highest Yes vote in 2008, 17% of boxes have been opened. (10am) There are early tallies in for 22 of the 43 constituencies, but as Sean O'Rourke has said on RTÉ Radio One 'tallies are incomplete and unscientific'. (9.57am) 20% of boxes have been opened in the key constituencies of Donegal South West and Donegal North East. (9.52am) RTÉ's Political Correspondent David McCullagh is reporting that early indications from count centres around the country suggest that the Lisbon Treaty will be carried. (9.50am) Up to 30% of the boxes have been opened in Clare and a result is expected there at 1pm. 5% of boxes have been opened in Dublin North East and 3% in Dublin North West. (9.45am) 3% of boxes have been opened in Waterford. A result is expected at 12.30pm. (9.35am) An early tally received from Carlow-Kilkenny is indicating a strong Yes vote. 15% of boxes have been opened. (9am) The count is on. Remember, RTÉ Radio coverage begins at 10am. RTÉ News's first Lisbon Special starts at 11am. (8.40am) Just 20 minutes to go until the counting of votes gets under way. (8.30am) When polling closed last night the indications were that the turnout was slightly up on the first Lisbon referendum. Fine Gael says an exit poll that it carried out shows there has been strong support for the Lisbon Treaty this time out. (8am) Welcome to our live text commentary on a day which will decide if Ireland has voted for the Lisbon Treaty, or rejected it for a second time.quote>

While I'm sure, and clearly evident, those that supported Chicago are disappointed. Resorting to somewhat hyperbole and disingenuous statements is not exactly helpful. Indeed it is rather telling. If that's how some people actually feel then you do not deserve to host the Olympic Games, I don't see much of the Olympic Spirit in some posts. Shame really.

The BBC has the License Fee, everyone in the UK with a TV has to pay it. The BBC prides itself on being separate from government influence. It's governed by a trust and any attempts by government or politicians to interfere is rebuked rather strongly. Hence they avoid dong such a thing. Same as in Japan, Germany, Ireland and other countries. In those that are funded by public money many have laws that give them autonomy from government. Most have been modelled on the structure of the BBC, which is no bad thing. In my opinion it remains the best in the world.

And the other problem of course is that you still pay for the public system whether or not you actually use it, so there is economic incentive to not seek private care even if you can afford it. Both of these things are already real issues with public schools in America. quote> Much like your Medicare Tax then, you may not need to avail of it when your older, but you have still paid for it. Your federal taxes also pays for emergency care for the uninsured in hospitals you will likely never see or use. Nevertheless, the proof is in the pudding of the open door test - people who can afford it from other countries come to the US to get high quality state of the art healthcare, not vice versa.quote> I don't think anyone stated that America does not have high standards of medical care. It is however one thing to have world leading hospitals treating some, while in the same country people die of easily preventable diseases and illness. America's inequality in regard to healthcare is the precise reason why a nation with some of the best hospitals in the world is also the nation that is, on average, one of the worst in the developed world in terms of healthcare and one where life expectancy is lower than most of it's first world partners and where birth mortality and deaths from curable disease are higher. Always two sides to the coin. Just as there are some hospitals in the UK that are badly run, there are others that are modern and highly sophisticated as well as excelling in medical care and patient service. Belfast has one of Europe's leading cancer research and treatment centres, all of its care is provided free of charge and some of the best you will find in Europe. That's one small example, a hell of a lot more exist. Or because you don't want to give the government more power, don't want them taking more of your tax dollars, and don't want them spending them in ways you might not agree with.quote> I take it you have forgotten my example, comparing UK and US tax collection, we pay about the same. The notion we are charged vast sums is beyond ridiculous and lacking any basis

As for the national public networks carrying it, yeah, well, we don't have a national public TV station. There's PBS, but that's an NPO, not government run. quote> Neither are many public broadcasters, including the BBC. They are there to serve the people, not the interests of government.

Yeah I suppose commercial decisions need to be made. We don't have such concerns, think I'm also correct in saying most nations carry the Olympics on their national public broadcasting networks.

Originally posted by: Easy Bakes Originally posted by: N_O_Body I am surprised that anyone is surprised. Rio was the overwhelming choice since the games have never been held in South America. And besides, the scenery is better in Rio.quote> + its in a reasonable time zone for live broadcasts to the US. If im not Mistaken they are on Atlantic/NY time? quote> Why would the timezone matter? The BBC show all the events live, no matter the time difference. Have very often found myself up in the early hours watching. The BBC's interactive TV service also means if several events are taking place at the same time, you can simply switch to see that. You do of course need digital tv for the latter, but most here do. Do American networks not have the same level of coverage? the best city is MADRID. Here people really want the games more than the other cities but the COI is really corrupt Rio has paid themquote> Hardly... Madrid did not win becuase London is hosting in 2012. Rio also had a fantastic bid and I'm sure it will be a stunning games. Everyone hates a sore loser.

JK Rowling denied top US honour JK Rowling's Harry Potter's books have sold more than 400 million copies Harry Potter author JK Rowling missed out on a top honour because some US politicians believed she "encouraged witchcraft", it has been claimed. Matt Latimer, former speech writer for President George W Bush, said that some members of his administration believed her books promoted sorcery. As a result, she was never presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The claims appear in Latimer's new book called Speechless: Tales of a White House Survivor. He wrote that "narrow thinking" led White House officials to object to giving Rowling the civilian honour. The award acknowledges contributions to US national interest, world peace or cultural endeavours. Past literary recipients of the award include John Steinbeck and Harper Lee. Others denied the privilege under the Bush administration included Senator Edward Kennedy, who died in August this year. Latimer claimed, in his book, that the veteran politician and health care activist was excluded because he was deemed to be too liberal.quote> BBC Article

Storm in a teacup

Originally posted by: Patricius Maximus I don't like socialized medicine (i.e. state monopoly on health care), because like any other monopoly, it lacks choice, an element which always improves an economy, a health care system, and quality of life. And for the record I have no connections to the health care industry (aside from going to a doctor every couple of years). quote> No it doesn't Countries that have social healthcare also have private healthcare as well. People still have a choice, it's just we ensure that everyone, no matter of their socio-economic position gets quality life saving care.

Indeed their tactics have been utterly ridiculous. That and UKIP getting involved has only furthered the debacle of the NO Campaign.

The award is not meant to be partisan though. Kinda defeats the purpose of an award that rewards contribution to American society or important world figures.

The perspective is flawed though. The Treaty does not impact on Irish freedom whatsoever. I advise you to actually go and read the Treaty. Scare tactics based on unfounded bull is all the NO campaign have The main reason why they voted no last time is becuase the Treaty was not fully explained. Tthe Treaty has not been changed, it has simply been made clearer, in addition to Irish people being assured that important issues remains wholly Irish. Since that has been made clear, it has been disclosed that the NO campaign based their rambling on wholly groundless 'facts'

Huge Anglo-Saxon gold hoard found The UK's largest haul of Anglo-Saxon treasure has been discovered buried beneath a field in Staffordshire. Experts say the collection of 1,500 gold and silver pieces, which may date to the 7th Century, is unparalleled in size and worth "a seven figure sum". It has been declared treasure by South Staffordshire coroner Andrew Haigh, meaning it belongs to the Crown. Terry Herbert, who found it on farmland using a metal detector, said it "was what metal detectorists dream of". It may take more than a year for it to be valued. (It is) absolutely the equivalent of finding a new Lindisfarne Gospels or Book of Kells Leslie Webster Analysis: Hoard lights up Dark Ages In pictures: Hoard uncovered BBC History: The Anglo-Saxons The Staffordshire Hoard contains about 5kg of gold and 2.5kg of silver, making it far bigger than the Sutton Hoo discovery in 1939 when 1.5kg of Anglo-Saxon gold was found near Woodbridge in Suffolk. Leslie Webster, former keeper at the British Museum's Department of Prehistory and Europe, said: "This is going to alter our perceptions of Anglo-Saxon England as radically, if not more so, as the Sutton Hoo discoveries. "(It is) absolutely the equivalent of finding a new Lindisfarne Gospels or Book of Kells." The Book of Kells and Lindisfarne Gospels are intricately illuminated manuscripts of the four New Testament Gospels dating from the 9th and 8th Centuries. 'Just unbelievable' Mr Herbert, 55, of Burntwood in Staffordshire, who has been metal detecting for 18 years, came across the hoard as he searched land belonging to a farmer friend over five days in July. The exact location has not been disclosed. "I have this phrase that I say sometimes; 'spirits of yesteryear take me where the coins appear', but on that day I changed coins to gold," he said. "I don't know why I said it that day but I think somebody was listening and directed me to it. Duncan Slarke, Portable Antiquities: ''It is a hugely important find'' "This is what metal detectorists dream of, finding stuff like this. But the vast amount there is is just unbelievable." BBC correspondent Nick Higham said the hoard would be valued by the British Museum and the money passed on to Mr Herbert and the landowner. A total of 1,345 items had been examined by experts, although the list included 56 clods of earth which had been X-rayed were are known to contain further metal artefacts. This has meant the total number of items was likely to rise to about 1,500. Experts have so far established that there were at least 650 items of gold in the haul, weighing more than 5kgs (11lb), and 530 silver objects totalling more than 1kg (2.2lb) in weight. Copper alloy, garnets and glass objects were also discovered at the undisclosed site. Duncan Slarke, finds liaison officer for Staffordshire, was the first professional to see the hoard which contains warfare paraphernalia, including sword pommel caps and hilt plates inlaid with precious stones. He said he was "virtually speechless" when he saw the items. "I saw boxes full of gold, items exhibiting the very finest Anglo-Saxon workmanship," he added. Roger Bland, head of portable antiquities and treasure at the British Museum, said: "The most we can say is, I think we're fairly confident it is likely to be a seven-figure sum." 'Truly remarkable' The collection is currently being kept in secure storage at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery but a selection of the items are to be displayed at the museum from Friday until 13 October. Dr Kevin Leahy, who has been cataloguing the find for the Portable Antiquities Scheme, said it was "a truly remarkable collection". Terry Herbert found The Staffordshire Hoard using a metal detector He said it had been found in the heartland of the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Mercia. "All the archaeologists who've worked with it have been awestruck," he added. "It's been actually quite scary working on this material to be in the presence of greatness." He said the most striking feature of the find was that it was almost totally weapon fittings with no feminine objects such as dress fittings, brooches or pendants. "Swords and sword fittings were very important in the Anglo-Saxon period," Dr Leahy added. "The Anglo-Saxon poem Beowulf describes after a battle a sword being stripped of its hilt fittings. "It looks like a collection of trophies, but it is impossible to say if the hoard was the spoils from a single battle or a long and highly successful military career. "We also cannot say who the original, or the final, owners were, who took it from them, why they buried it or when. "It will be debated for decades." quote>

Yes indeed Mercia. The find also has indicated that the people were more advanced than previously thought, trading with India and Byzantine

Much of the NO campaign relies on lies and hyperbole, so the wage aspect does not surprise me.

Originally posted by: Joe 90 Most of the Anglo-Saxon royalty used Latin for certain purposes (like coin inscriptions) so that doesn't necessarily make it a church hoard, although by then the heptarchy kingdoms were well and truly tied up with the church. The size of it would indicate a royal source to me, especially given its three times the size of what was found at Sutton Hoo.quote> Indeed, I do believe it is connected to an ancient Anglo-Saxon kingdom located in modern central England. or the Midlands as we call them.

From one SCJU nation to another, The Simlympic Torch left the People's Republic of Toright and has traversed the stars and arrived in the vast and awe inspiring Atlantean Empire. Home to over 145 billion people, spread across 19 planets and several more colonies and enclaves. It is the largest and most powerful within the explored galaxy . At the very heart of this empire is the Imperial Capital of Atlantis City. A showcase of breathtaking grandeur, innovative city design and a paradise of culture. The Torch arrived from Toright and was welcomed by the Honour Guard of the Imperial Household Guards at the Atlantis City Space Dock. Also present at the welcoming ceremony were Atlantean Simlympic Officials and the Minister for Sports and Leisure and representatives from the Atlantean SCJU Office, Paranor and Toright Embassy From here it travelling across the city to the Imperial Quarter for a second welcome ceremony at Marathon Square, a ceremony presided over by the Lord Mayor of Atlantis City and watched by thousands of citizens. A ceremonial flame was lit in the centre of the reflecting pool before the Torch made it's way to the Imperial Palace to be met by the Prince Regent, passing through the Government District. His Imperial Highness the Prince Regent takes the Torch and is accompanied by the Imperial Guards through the Imperial Quarter toward the National Potrait Gallery where it it handed over to a group of local school children...onward to the sprawling Intergalactic Commerce Zone. From here we turn north-west and head across the river to the Old Quarter, using the grand wide avenues and passing the most important and historically significant buildings in the city. From here they pass the National Monument of Remembrance before heading up toward the SCJU Representative Office and SCJU Memorial, built in memory of those killed in the SCJU HQ Bombing in New Rhodesia City in 2008. Heading south they pass through the SCJU Business Park, past the National Opera House and onward toward the Imperial University where thousands await their arrival. The entire route has been filled with eager and celebrating Atlantean citizens, demonstrating their support for the relay and for Paranor Island, a close ally of the Imperial Empire. From the University they turn back toward the city centre and head to the Atlantis City Stadium where the relay will end. Later this evening a massive concert will take place to mark the end of the Torch Relay and thank all those that took part in the Atlantean leg, in addition to all the cities that took part this year. The Torch will then be handed to the Paranor Ambassador, who will make his way to the Space Dock and leave for Earth, arriving in time for the games in Leah. ONWARD TO LEAH!!!!

Who cares whether a British citizen gets an American honor? quote> It's an American honour, but one awarded to many people from various nations. She does have an OBE yes

Roman Polanski in Swiss detention Roman Polanski fled to France in 1978 Film director Roman Polanski has been taken into custody in Switzerland and faces extradition to the US for having sex with a 13-year-old girl in 1977. Mr Polanski, 76, was detained in Zurich on Saturday as he travelled from France to collect a lifetime achievement award at the Zurich Film Festival. He is being held under a 2005 international alert issued by the US. Mr Polanski has been to Switzerland before, but this time US authorities apparently knew of his trip in advance. That gave them time to prepare the groundwork for his arrest and send a provisional arrest warrant to Swiss authorities, judicial officials said. A Swiss spokesman said the US would now have to make a formal extradition request. The director can contest his detention and any extradition decision in the Swiss courts, he added. Mr Polanski's lawyer, Georges Kiejman, said he planned to challenge his client's arrest. "We are going to try to lift the arrest warrant in Zurich," he told France Info radio. "The [extradition] convention between Switzerland and the United States is not very clear." Mr Polanski fled the US in 1978 after pleading guilty to unlawful sexual intercourse with an underage girl. He was initially indicted on six counts and faced up to life in prison. In recent years, he has tried to have the rape case dismissed, claiming the original judge, who is now dead, arranged a plea bargain but later reneged. CASE TIMELINE 1977 - Polanski admits unlawful sex with Samantha Geimer, 13, in Los Angeles 1978 - flees to Britain after US arrest warrant is issued 1978 - immediately moves to France where he holds citizenship 1978 - settles in France, where he is protected by France's limited extradition with US 2008 - Polanski's lawyer demands case be dismissed and hearing moved out of LA court 2009 - Polanski's request to have hearing outside LA is denied Profile: Roman Polanski Roman Polanski: Your comments Earlier this year, Judge Peter Espinoza agreed there was misconduct by the judge in the original case, but said Mr Polanski must return to the US to apply for dismissal. Mr Polanski's lawyers said he would not return to the US because he would be immediately arrested as a fugitive. The victim at the centre of the case, Samantha Geimer, has previously asked for the charges to be dropped, saying the continued publication of details "causes harm to me, my husband and children". She has also called the court's insistence that Mr Polanski appear in person "a cruel joke". 'Shock and dismay' The Paris-born Polish filmmaker - who is also a French citizen - has not set foot in the US for more than 30 years. His Oscar for directing 2002 film The Pianist was collected by Harrison Ford, who had previously starred in his 1988 thriller, Frantic. France's culture minister said he was "dumbfounded" by Mr Polanski's detention in Switzerland. Frederic Mitterrand said he "strongly regrets that a new ordeal is being inflicted on someone who has already experienced so many of them". He added that French President Nicolas Sarkozy was "following the case with great attention and shares the minister's hope that the situation can be quickly resolved". The organisers of the Zurich Film Festival said Polanski's detention had caused "shock and dismay", but that they would go ahead with a planned retrospective of the director's work. A special ceremony is planned for Sunday night "to allow everyone to express their solidarity for Roman Polanski and their admiration for his work", festival managers said in a statement. Meanwhile, British author Robert Harris - who had been working with Mr Polanski on a film adaptation of his novel The Ghost - said he was taken aback by the weekend's events. "One of the reasons I'm absolutely shocked and stunned by his arrest is that we have worked together extensively in Switzerland, where he has a home," Harris said. "If he was such a wanted criminal why did they let him own a house and travel back and forth freely?" But justice officials in both Switzerland and the US said the difference this time was that a provisional arrest warrant had been sent. William Sorukas, chief of the US Marshals Service's domestic investigations branch, told the Associated Press that investigators learned about the trip days in advance and were therefore able to prepare for an arrest. "There have been other times through the years when we have learned of his potential travel but either those efforts fell through or he didn't make the trip," he said.quote> Roman Polanski 'in fighting mood' The slow-burning Polanski saga Film director Roman Polanski is determined to fight his detention in Switzerland and extradition to the US, his lawyer has said. Herve Temime said the Oscar winner was "in fighting mood" and his legal team would seek his release "without delay". He added that the 76-year-old was "shocked and dumbfounded" by his arrest three days ago. US prosecutors want Mr Polanski to face sentencing for having unlawful sex with a 13-year-old girl in 1977. He pleaded guilty at the time but then fled abroad. ANALYSIS Imogen Foulkes, BBC News, Geneva Swiss precedent shows that the subjects of extradition requests are normally kept in detention. Although the Swiss justice ministry has said bail for Roman Polanski cannot be excluded, if bail is granted the conditions are likely to be very strict indeed. After all, Mr Polanski's record on bail is not a good one - 31 years ago, he skipped bail in the United States and fled to France rather than be sentenced in a US court. That is the reason he is in detention in Zurich today. Read more Mr Polanski is currently in custody in a Zurich prison. The director - who holds dual French-Polish citizenship - was detained on Saturday as he arrived in Zurich to receive a lifetime achievement award. A petition has been signed by film-makers and actors including Monica Bellucci and Fanny Ardant expressing dismay at Mr Polanski's arrest. Other Hollywood luminaries, including film producer Harvey Weinstein, have called for Mr Polanski's release. French culture minister Frederic Mitterrand said President Sarkozy was following the case "with great attention". Mr Mitterrand also told France-Inter radio that he and the Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski have written to US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and said there could be a decision as early as Monday if a Swiss court accepts bail. Mr Polanski has also been visited in prison by French and Polish diplomats. French Consul General Jean-Luc Faure-Tournaire said the director "thanks the many people who have shown support". Poland's ambassador to Switzerland, Jaroslaw Starzyk, said Mr Polanski was "in good condition". FROM THE TODAY PROGRAMME More from Today programme Mr Polanski's agent, Jeff Berg, told BBC Radio 4's Today programme the arrest was "surprising because Roman for the last 12, 15 years has lived in Switzerland, he has a home, he travels there, he works there". Justice spokesman Guido Balmer said the difference with this particular trip was that authorities knew exactly when and where Mr Polanski would arrive. Swiss Justice Minister Eveline Widmer-Schlumpf said that because of agreements with the US, "when Mr Polanski arrived we had no choice from a legal point of view but to arrest him". Los Angeles District Attorney Steve Cooley comments on Roman Polanski's arrest The Swiss media has rounded on the authorities. "Switzerland let a guest walk into a nasty trap. We should be ashamed," said tabloid newspaper Blick. Daily paper Le Temps said Switzerland had "shocked film buffs and friends of the arts with its kindly and efficient co-operation with US justice. It has angered Poland and France". US authorities have up to 60 days to make a formal extradition request but Mr Polanski could then appeal to the Swiss courts. In recent years, the director has asked a US appeals court in California to overturn a judge's refusal to throw out his case. He claimed misconduct by the judge, now deceased, who had arranged a plea bargain and then reneged on it. CASE TIMELINE 1977 - Mr Polanski admits unlawful sex with Samantha Geimer, 13, in Los Angeles 1978 - flees to Britain after US arrest warrant is issued 1978 - immediately moves to France where he holds citizenship 1978 - settles in France, where he is protected by France's limited extradition with US 2008 - Mr Polanski's lawyer demands case be dismissed and hearing moved out of LA court 2009 - Mr Polanski's request to have hearing outside LA is denied Profile: Roman Polanski Roman Polanski: Your comments The director is being held under a 2005 international alert issued by the US. Sandi Gibbons, a spokeswoman for the Los Angeles County district attorney's office, confirmed that moves to detain the director were set in motion last week. "It wasn't a big secret that he was going to be in Zurich. They had announced it on the internet," Ms Gibbons said. Mr Polanski was initially indicted on six counts and faced up to life in prison. He has not set foot in the US for more than 30 years. The victim at the centre of the case, Samantha Geimer, has previously asked for the charges to be dropped. She has already sued Mr Polanski and reached an undisclosed settlement. quote> Thoughts on the matter? The crime was committed over 30 years ago, however in my opinion that should be no reason for him being let off. He should be deported and made to serve his sentence.