The European Constitution is "strongly" in Ireland's interest, the Government said tonight in response to its rejection by French voters.
The Government said it "very much regrets" the outcome of the French referendum but "fully respect" the voters right to "make their own decision".
It said the Government was continuing to prepare for ratification of the constitution by November 2006.
"We have recently published the Referendum Bill and look forward to the start of debate in the Oireachtas.
"The Referendum Commission will shortly be established and the Government will soon be publishing a full White Paper to help inform the public. "The Government remains firmly of the view that the European Constitution is strongly in Ireland's interest and in that of the European Union as a whole."
