Kenny and Cowen had 'very constructive' meeting

THE TAOISEACH and Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny held a half-hour meeting at Mr Cowen’s office on the day before last week’s multi…

THE TAOISEACH and Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny held a half-hour meeting at Mr Cowen’s office on the day before last week’s multi-party consensus talks.

On October 11th, Mr Kenny wrote to Mr Cowen: “I am concerned at the continuing negative commentary about Ireland in the financial and other media, particularly in Europe”.

Mr Kenny said that “a short meeting between us would enable me to present an accurate and helpful presentation to my colleagues within the EPP Group”.

In a reply, Mr Cowen wrote: “I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to discuss the action we are taking to promote Ireland’s reputation in international financial markets and among our EU partners and to offer you any support or information you require in your endeavours to assist in that objective.”

The meeting took place on October 19th. Sources said the tone was “very constructive”.

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Deaglán  De Bréadún

Deaglán De Bréadún

Deaglán De Bréadún, a former Irish Times journalist, is a contributor to the newspaper