Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Unlike what happened some years ago, I do not expect, if there is a crisis within the eurozone, a decision to be taken at 2.30 a.m. with only a few people present. I would expect the leadership of the eurozone to call a special Council meeting if there was to be a focus on a particular crisis or a particular aspect of a crisis. I believe strongly that the European leadership will deal with this issue politically. I am not contemplating the failure of the euro or the break-up of the eurozone.

The comments and remarks of all of those who attended the eurozone meeting were about the need to protect the euro and continue the eurozone. The British Prime Minister, Mr. Cameron, made a point at the prior meeting of the 27 Heads of Government about its importance. Although Britain is outside the eurozone, he appreciates the impact and importance of the single market and its potential. In fact, he circulated a document at the second last meeting that I supported strongly on the European Union leveraging the potential for job creation and marketing under the Act.

We focus on what needs to be done. The eurozone Heads of Government made their decision which was thrown into turmoil by the decision of the Greek Prime Minister. That matter appears to be clearing up, with the emphasis shifting to Italy. I expect this matter will be dealt with comprehensively also. If necessary, we will have another meeting of the Council if there is another crisis to deal with. As I said, before the last two meetings, I had hoped we would be able to move this process to a point where the decisions taken would be clear, unequivocal and comprehensive in the interests of the eurozone and the protection of the euro. That is our focus.

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