No campaigners canvass Dublin city

Buoyed by a string of positive opinion poll results in recent days, members of the Lisbon Treaty No camp took to the streets of Dublin this afternoon with the belief that a No vote is an increasing possibility.

"We're getting a good response and I think this thing will be extremely close," said Socialist Party leader Joe Higgins.

"We've had a lot of interest in what we see as the crucial issues in Lisbon. I have spoken about the possible privatisation of health and education, further militarisation of the EU and workers rights and people seem genuinely concerned about these matters."

Assisted by his party colleagues, Mr Higgins took to O'Connell Street to spread the word on the No vote and passers by were quick to offer the Kerryman their support.

"You don't need to tell me Joe, I'll be voting no and the wife will be too," said one man as he grasped a Socialist Party leaflet in passing.

David Keane (31) from Galway said a lack of information, rather than a lack of interest in Europe, was driving the No vote forward.

"I won't vote Yes on something I don't understand just because the big parties are telling me I should. This whole thing has been a disaster and supporting a No vote won't mean Europe will come to an end on Friday," he said.

Not everyone was willing to listen to the Socialist message but despite a few rebuttals from passers by, the No canvass continued with Mr Higgins outlining why Lisbon will not benefit workers rights.

"The Taoiseach fatally undermined the case for workers rights through a Yes vote and the Charter of Fundamental Rights when he point blank refused to promise legislation giving workers the right to organise and be recognised by their employer."

"I think people don't see any serious or concrete arguments as to why they should support this, " he said.