Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

On Deputy Kenny's question on the Lisbon Agenda, the objectives were updated, I believe, during our own Presidency in 2004. The annual economic spring summit that takes place at European Heads of Government and State levels has as its precise focus, in normal times, the progress being made in regard to the achievement of those objectives. While one would like to see progress in a range of areas accelerate, there is, in the annual calendar of Heads of State and Government, a specific summit meeting held for the purpose of determining how the Lisbon Agenda is being advanced. That structured approach has brought more focus and commitment to that important work.

On the question of St. Patrick's Day, final arrangements have not been agreed but our embassy in Washington is in contact with the White House, as is normal at this time of year.

I am not so sure Deputy Gilmore's question accurately reflects what President Barroso had to say. I said at the time in question, and reiterate, that Ireland, as part of the euro area, has a wider zone of stability in which it can seek to meet the very serious challenges it is confronted with. This contrasts with the position of Iceland, which had to try to rely on its own resources. This led to and will continue to lead to great difficulties for Iceland. We wish it well in its efforts.

I was simply making the point that Ireland must confront the effect of sterling depreciation, the financial crisis, the economic crisis, the international recession and the Lisbon treaty issue. These constitute a confluence of events that have occurred at the one time and which make the challenge a considerable one, and one about which we cannot be complacent. I emphasise the difficulties that do not go away and also the need for all of us, in trying to deal with the issues, to do so in a way that does not exacerbate an already difficult problem.

I do not know to whom Deputy Gilmore is referring in regard to the gaffe about the IMF. When this became known here, the emphasis in the reportage was unfortunate. I certainly did not indicate that I regarded that as something that was imminent or relevant to us, particularly given that we are part of the euro area. The European Central Bank continues to be of strong support to Ireland in these circumstances.

Deputy Ó Caoláin referred to my recent visits and plans for the year. I am not aware of what representation, if any, there was on the part of Ireland at the World Social Forum in Brazil. I will have to check this and revert to the Deputy.

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