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SPREAD THE word, the time has come, show the people that we recognise that democracy, transparency and accountability are the prerequisites for freedom, said Libertas founder Declan Ganley in his closing words to the party faithful. The tone was almost evangelical and the mood distinctly upbeat, but there was no mistaking the seriousness of intent yesterday at the first convention in Rome of once anti-Lisbon Treaty, now pan-European Libertas.

When proceedings opened yesterday morning at the Parco della Musica Auditorium, Mr Ganley began by greeting the national delegations in the 1,200-1,300 strong gathering. As 27 EU country names were called out, the relevant delegates whooped with delight and waved their flags. It might have been a papal audience in St Peter’s Square, which is traditionally enlivened when the pope’s secretary runs through the names of the various parishes present.