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EU vote

By United Press International

DUBLIN, Ireland, Oct. 2 (UPI) -- The U.K. former leader's next big job could hinge on a vote in Ireland where the proposed EU Constitution is again under consideration.

The Irish vote result is considered key to ratification. If the initiative passes -- results are to be released Saturday -- the Lisbon Treaty is expected to quickly win additional support needed to put it in place.

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The new frame of government calls for the establishment of an EU presidency and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair is considered the lone candidate for that job. If Ireland votes "yes," Blair could be installed as EU president by the end of the month.

Opinion polls indicate the measure will pass in Ireland, which in 2008 voted it down. Irish leaders said there would be no third try if Friday's vote fails. Results were expected Saturday.