Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I do accept and take seriously my responsibilities. As I stated previously, as the stress tests on the banks here were not completed prior to the next meeting that responsibility was given to the Ministers for Finance. That is where the negotiations are now. The Deputy will be aware that many countries, individuals and organisation outside Europe agree with Ireland's position.

I understand that in the general discussions that take place at the Heads of Government meeting one can and will contribute. I do not draw up the agenda myself. In the context of where Europe is headed, European political leaders should look at how assistance and support can be given and in this regard how schemes can be redesigned, which is a requirement of the ESM. Europe will have to look at this in the interest of assisting countries and supporting them, which is part of the solidarity principle which is central to the European Union.

I did not go to Downing Street looking for an interest rate reduction on the bilateral loan. It was the first meeting and we discussed a range of issues.

I thanked the Prime Minister for his support for Ireland. We will continue to build on those very good relationships. I expect the issue of the ESM and the progress in Europe's position will of course be central to the Heads of Government meeting this month and I expect to contribute strongly to that.

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