The Taoiseach said today Ireland would not participate in any European common defence agreement without a referendum on the issue.
Addressing the National Forum on Europe in Dublin, Mr Ahern said he would not stand in the way of other countries on the issue and confirmed "Ireland's destiny, Ireland's identity, Ireland's prosperity and indeed Ireland's freedom are greatly enhanced by a prosperous and free Europe."
He said Ireland would respect the outcome of the European Convention, adding: "We do not wish to see that work unravelled. At the same time a number of areas require further work, this is especially so in the security and defence area."
A convention of 105 lawmakers and national representatives drawn from across Europe agreed a draft constitution in June after 16 months of debate under former French President Valery Giscard d'Estaing.
Mr Ahern said: "Ireland's position is quite clear. While we have said that we would not stand in the way of others, Ireland cannot participate in EU common defence without the prior consent of the people in a referendum."
The leaders of 28 present and future European Union states opened the Intergovernmental Conference in Rome on October 4th to thrash out a constitution that will govern how former foes from across the continent will work together in an enlarged EU.
Mr Ahern said there were a limited number of other concern for Ireland including unanimity for all elements of taxation and for the criminal law aspects of Justice and Home Affairs.
