Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Ireland has been a member of the European Union for some time. We have agreed on a whole range of measures over the years about how to conduct business, in respect of which Ireland has drawn down substantial funds. In writing to the Council President, Mr. Van Rompuy, I was explaining formally to him the scale of the challenge Ireland faces because of the unprecedented level of borrowing for the recapitalisation of our banks. If Deputy Higgins believes we should not enter into formal correspondence, then he should say so. What is involved is to get the burden of our costs down for our taxpayers. It is an enormous challenge on an enormous scale. Already, substantial savings of over €5 billion with some bondholders have been made.

This is a country that pays its way. As a sovereign country, it is important we do that. When we are out of this bailout programme, by paying our way we will have retained the respect of European institutions and leaders.

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