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THE REFERENDUM on the Lisbon Treaty is likely to be carried on October 2nd, in spite of a slow erosion of public support, according to the latest Irish Times/TNS mrbi opinion poll. A four-point increase in the No vote has been partially offset by a rise of two points in the Yes vote, with 18 per cent remaining undecided. On the basis of those figures, it is unlikely that a gap of 15 points can be closed within the coming week.

The findings of the poll will come as a considerable relief to members of the Government and the main Opposition parties who have campaigned in a more organised and assertive fashion on this occasion, particularly in relation to postering and the promotion of EU benefits. Their efforts were considerably enhanced by the involvement of well-known personalities from business, sporting and cultural backgrounds who went out of their way to promote Ireland’s best interests in Europe.