Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have been very clear and consistent about this since the negotiations and discussions with the European Central Bank began. The Government and the Governor of the Central Bank, who attends the meetings as a member from Ireland, have made it perfectly clear that this is not an easy situation to unravel. Clearly, the untangling of the deal done, which will cost €3.1 billion per year until 2023 and lesser amounts beyond and which amounts to almost €48 billion under the current arrangement, is not simple. If this were a simple issue to untangle, it would have been done long ago; if it were not as complicated as it is, then it would have been dealt with long ago. I have said consistently that what the Government wants is the best outcome that can be got for the taxpayer.

During complex and technical negotiations on a range of issues many matters are discussed. I want, and I am confident that we will have, a conclusion and a deal on this before the next payment date, which is due at the end of March. Deputy Martin said there were no significant challenges but there are and they are very significant, technical and complex.

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