Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Our intention to pursue Ireland's best interest has not disappeared. I have every faith in the capacity of the Minister for Finance to deal with the responsibility allocated to him and his colleagues by the Heads of Government. The Minister pointed out in a contribution which received credible support that the level of interest in European programmes should be lower and that the cost is too high. He received strong support from a number of countries after he made that contribution. The Heads of Government have given this responsibility to the Ministers for Finance and our Minister is exceptionally strong in this area and has pointed out clearly that the cost of European programmes is too high. At the last meeting, the agenda of which was dominated by the Greek situation, he made that point in general and I am sure the Deputy agrees with him.

I have confidence in the Minister and support him as he carries out the duties and responsibilities assigned to him. Otherwise we will deal with this at Heads of Government level. I will presently receive a briefing from officials in respect of issues we think should be discussed and I will contribute to the meeting according to whatever actually appears on the agenda. This particular matter was given to the Ministers for Finance by the Heads of Government and I have every faith in the ability of our Minister to carry out his duties. In that sense, he has been exceptionally strong, clear and forthright on where Ireland stands and where we want to be.

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