Taoiseach Enda Kenny accepted the Golden Viktoria European of the Year Award in Berlin tonight in “the name of the Irish people” at home and overseas.
“It’s clear the words do not exist to describe their courage their dignity their generosity in how they have faced and are now facing-down such difficulties,” Mr Kenny said at a ceremony tonight.
“Be in no doubt it is because of them, and their outstanding qualities that I bring good news to Berlin tonight. Ireland is on the road to recovery. ,” Mr Kenny said.
The award was given by Germany’s Association of Magazine Publishers (VDZ).
Mr Kenny said Ireland was “heartened” by German chancellor Angela Merkel’s recognition of the State’s “unique circumstances, our special case, due to the weight of bank-related debt".
Ireland’s forthcoming EU Presidency would be all about, " stability, jobs and growth", he said.
Mr Kenny was “determined Ireland’s success-story will be Europe’s success-story”.
The association gave the award in recognition of Mr Kenny’s “strong contribution to Europe and commitment to European ideals both as prime minister and throughout his many years in public life”.
