Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

In answer to the Deputy's question, I am interested in results, and the savings to the Irish taxpayer as a consequence of the interest rate reductions have been substantial. I do not dictate the schedules for other European leaders, no more than they dictate ours.

I had a bilateral meeting with the Finnish Prime Minister, which is a triple A rated country. Finland had inserted a clause in July that its participation in the EFSF would result in a requirement for collateral to be made available to that country. This was a source of considerable difficulty for other countries, but the matter has now been resolved. I spoke at length to the Finnish Prime Minister about that, and one of the issues we discussed was Finland's interest in looking at the global economy next year, the possibility of a downturn in the Finnish economy, and the production of a competitiveness index for the European Union and the eurozone. I pointed out to him the reduction in unit labour costs here, the increase in our competitiveness and the decisions taken by the Government that impact on that. We both agreed on the potential of the Single Market and the opportunity provided to European countries to market their goods.

The Dutch Prime Minister's view in July was for a charge to be levied against countries that avail of EFSF funding. That matter has been dealt with technically and it has all been sorted out. I also discussed the future with the Austrian Prime Minister. As a triple A rated country, the Austrians were anxious to hear about the decisions Ireland has been making and the consequent progress that has been made.

I have been in touch with Chancellor Merkel's office on a couple of occasions. I expect we will be able to arrange a formal bilateral meeting of substance. I cannot confirm the date yet, because it depends on schedules here and there, as well as with the-----

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