Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

These parties and candidates are entitled to their views. I have said I welcome any political or government leader in Europe who now joins, as Deputy Shane Ross calls it, in the clamour for growth and investment to be included as a fixed item in the Council agendas. In that sense, he is aware that the treaty was signed by President Sarkozy. An addition to the treaty in respect of growth and investment in job creation and opportunities is one I could support strongly in principle. That does not change the treaty, but an addition focused on growth and investment, depending on the issues involved, is one I could support. Clearly, we have already made known our views on the issues of corporation tax rates and a financial transaction tax. I accept there is a principle involved. I support leaders who join in placing the focus on the need to have investment and growth included in the agenda, but it is not for me to interfere with the statements made by Mr. Hollande, President Sarkozy or anyone else who is conducting his or her own electoral process.

See this speech in context