Hurling star gets off the ditch for Nice

The Irish Alliance for Europe today enlisted the services of Kilkenny hurling star DJ Carey to the campaign for a Yes vote in the Nice referendum.

Carey who off the pitch runs his own business - aptly named DJ Carey Entreprises - said he was "only too happy" to throw his weight behind the campaign.

He said his company which specialises in selling cleaning and hygiene products is benefiting from the single currency and he feared another No vote could "leave Ireland out on a limb".

Endorsement of the Nice Treaty was "important for Irish jobs and Ireland's standing in Europe," he added.

"I want Ireland to continue to play in Europe's first division, to be a full team member," he said

Carey has in the past spoken out on other issues prompting speculation that he might have an eye on a career in politics.

"Not so" says the hurling star, "My political past is nil. My political future is nil. I have no intention of running for public office."

He said politicians have enough hassle in their lives these days and "I have enough hassle in mine."