Brussels, 25/11/2008 (Agence Europe) - The constitutional court of the Czech Republic, which began its hearings on Tuesday with a view to determining whether the Lisbon Treaty is compatible with the Czech Constitution, could give its verdict on Wednesday. On Tuesday, judges heard the arguments put forward by the various parties, including President Vaclav Klaus, who criticised the transfer of additional powers “to the EU's hands, which are not subject to sufficient democratic control”. “Deepening of European integration should not occur covertly, behind the backs of the members states' citizens and should not be forced on them against their will”, Mr Klaus told the Court. Speaking on behalf of the Czech government in favour of the treaty, Deputy Prime Minister Alexandr Vondra stressed that the Lisbon Treaty would not transform the EU into a “federation”. It will always be a “union of sovereign states”, he said. President Klaus also pointed out that he would not sign any law to ratify the treaty until Ireland has ratified the text. (H.B./transl.jl)