A result is expected today on the referendum in the Republic of Ireland on the country's ratification of the Nice treaty.

Ireland is the only country to hold a referendum on the treaty, which would could not come into force in any of the 15 European Union member states if the republic said no.

The treaty paves the way for the expansion of the European Union, the development of a new military structure on the continent and the abolition of the national veto in 34 areas.

The referendum could be jeopardised, however, by a low turnout. The Irish government is thought to want a minimum of a 40 per cent of people to cast their votes if the result is to carry any weight.