The case is seen as an important affirmation of Europe-wide citizenship rights.

Clearly relieved, EU officials saw the decision as an important affirmation of the EU's ability to project itself militarily.

It represents an important affirmation as holder of the EU presidency, of Ireland's commitment to the full range of our membership responsibilities.

But, as the ritual unfolded and the political personalities lived again, it became an important affirmation of traditional values in a maelstrom of change.