The Irish People's Party is the name of the new party established by local anti-Lisbon campaigner, Brian O'Connor.

In a statement released to the Leader, Mr O'Connor said that the party is being formed "in response to the government's refusal to accept the will of the people".

"Irish people should not be inflicted with Income Levies to support mismanaged banks," stated Mr O'Connor. "The banks and the government in turn have not supported the people and it is high time the People are represented.

In order to form a political party, 300 members are required. At present, members of the Irish People's Party have in the region of 80 members and have organised a public meeting for Monday night next, July 20, in the Longford Arms at 7pm, entitled, 'Will you help us to help you?'

Mr O'Connor, who is a former member of the anti-Lisbon group Cóir, said the government are hailing Europe to save Ireland from the current economic woes.

"The truth is, through the Nice Treaty, Europe laid the groundwork which facilitated factories here to move to Eastern Europe. Also, up until last September, Europe consistently raised interest rates, and thereby helped kill the Irish economy.

"Meanwhile, the people are being asked to vote again on the exact same treaty of Lisbon, to which they have already said, 'no'. This is akin to a subtle dictatorship," said Mr O'Connor.

"Not one word of the treaty of Lisbon will be amended. The so-called legal guarantees, which the government have made a song and dance about, are not being included in the treaty. Therefore, they hold no guarantee."

Mr O'Connor said The Irish People's Party is now being formed to give true representation to people living in Ireland.

Its chairperson, Mr Frank Fahy also from Longford, said, "All are needed to join the party and will hopefully attend next Mondays meeting."

The IPP Party may be contacted via its website: www.ippparty.webs.com