Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Deputy Martin asked me to give details of discussions with the French President, Mr. Sarkozy, in recent weeks. My discussions with him took place during the course of the European Council meeting. As I said, we had a good conservation about the issue of the interest rate reduction. I have detailed the bilateral contacts with the other Heads of Government. The Polish Prime Minister, Mr. Tusk, is anxious to come to Ireland early in his term of European Presidency. It will probably be in September if the dates are appropriate.

The French President, Mr. Sarkozy, is anxious a conclusion be brought to the issue of an interest rate reduction for Ireland. He is of the opinion that the personnel involved should continue their discussions and, hopefully, arrive at a conclusion. I would like to have it done as quickly as possible, as everyone else does. The German Chancellor, Ms Merkel, confirmed she is absolutely confident of Ireland beating the economic challenge it faces and that she supports our programme.

I briefed the European People's Party on Ireland's position. I made the point about the general pricing of loans and that those countries complying with their conditions should be supported. I made the same point at the Council meeting to the general body of the 27 member states. I also made the point that, in the event of anything untoward happening in the Grecian situation, other countries should be supported by the European Union, particularly those complying with the conditions set out in their respective EU-IMF deals. That was clearly understood by everybody.

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