According to Jane's Intelligence Digest (17/1/08, "New EU treaty worries US intel services") "United States policymakers are concerned its provisions could present serious challenges to transatlantic intelligence and homeland security co-operation.".... "US intelligence and security officials have been able to circumvent EU institutions in many cases so far by relying extensively on formal and informal arrangements with the individual member governments. In addition, Washington has felt confident that its European allies would use their powers to veto unwelcome EU-wide proposals in areas related to security and defence. If adopted, the Lisbon treaty could threaten many of these arrangements. "
In other words, the US intelligence establishment is confident that Ireland, acting on its own, would never effectively oppose such things as rendition flights through Shannon, whereas the EU, with a strengthened Common Foreign and Security Policy and a legally binding Charter of Fundamental Rights, just might.
Could there be a connection here? "It's a mystery to me - the game commences, For the usual fee - plus expenses, Confidential information - it's in my diary..."
the self-styled "think-tank" When the capital development of a country becomes a by-product of the activities of a casino, the job is likely to be ill-done. — John M. Keynes
