Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 254: To ask the Minister for Finance the extent to which this country's response to liabilities arising from the EU-IMF bailout is recognised throughout the EU and beyond; whether as a programme country we in this jurisdiction are keeping pace with expectations and if these countries contribute to stability here and throughout the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19539/12]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, Ireland's progress in implementing its programme targets is assessed through a quarterly review process. The mission element of the sixth review started this week. Our record of programme implementation has been second to none, a fact repeatedly acknowledged by the EU and IMF authorities. It is also recognised more widely. Each review is subject to approval by euro area/EU Finance Ministers and this has been provided without difficulty on each occasion.

The success of our programme implementation has also been recognised by the financial markets. Our 10 year bond yields have remained below 7% for a number of weeks now. In addition, the NTMA has successfully re-engaged with the markets through the recent bond swap. These are all positive indications. They reflect our resolve successfully emerging from our programme at the end of 2013, and to resume financing ourselves in the financial markets.

In this context it is important to recognise that our progress is made possible by the solidarity of our fellow EU Member States.