Kenny criticised for not meeting Sarkozy

TAOISEACH Enda Kenny has been criticised for failing to meet French president Nicolas Sarkozy about his opposition to a cut in Ireland’s loan interest rate more than three months after it had been agreed in principle.

Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin described it as “extraordinary” that Mr Kenny had not even picked up the phone to Mr Sarkozy.

Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams described the way the Government was dealing with the EU as a “debacle”.

Mr Kenny said he would arrange a meeting at an appropriate time with the French president, but that the issue was currently being dealt with by the EU’s finance ministers.

He told the Dáil: “I’ve never actually set a date for a conclusion of the question of an interest rate reduction.”

He added, however, that “it’s always been my expectation and belief that it will be concluded successfully”.

During Dáil questions, Mr Martin asked why the cut in the interest rate for Ireland’s international loans was not on the agenda for the EU meeting today and tomorrow.

Mr Martin said, “if there is a fundamental difference on an issue with a head of state I find it extraordinary that a meeting has not been held to deal with it. This is an issue that has already been agreed.”

The Fianna Fáil leader asked if people were afraid of Mr Sarkozy “or are they simply trying to resolve the issue around him?”

The Taoiseach told him that the agenda was set by the president of the council of leaders, the finance ministers were dealing with it and officials were in regular contact with their counterparts about it.

Mr Adams said the Government’s position was weakened by its commitment to uphold the terms of the EU-IMF agreement.

“Why on earth would they take you seriously when you’re saying to them that you’re totally committed to doing what they want you to do?”

Government backbencher Tommy Broughan (Labour, Dublin North East) asked if the Government would give the electorate its say with a referendum on the EU-IMF agreement.

The Taoiseach said the Attorney General was looking at the position. However, the previous attorney had said that such a referendum would not be required.