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04 October 2012

EP president Martin Schulz praises Ireland's sacrifices on visit to Dáil


European Parliament president Martin Schulz paid tribute to Ireland's efforts to tackle its financial difficulties with "determination and purpose".

In his address to the Irish parliament, Mr Schulz said Ireland had taken the hard decisions needed to get its economy back on track and that Europe should play its part by showing solidarity. "Personally, I believe that the Irish programme should be adjusted before the end of the year along the lines of the June European Council conclusions", he said. 

On the current state affairs, Mr Schulz said: "Ordinary hard-working people can't be asked to shoulder the follow-up costs of this crisis alone. The European Parliament with an overwhelming majority believes that the financial markets have to deliver now and they have to contribute to the follow-up costs of the crisis with a financial transaction tax. In the view of the European Parliament it is simply a matter of moral decency and social justice. I know the reluctance of Ireland. But those who wish to have a Financial Transaction Tax should not be prevented to implement it on the basis of enhanced cooperation."

The president stressed Ireland had benefited much from being in the EU: "Joining the European Union nearly 40 years ago boosted the Irish economy though direct aid and increasing foreign investment. Today, 60 per cent of Ireland's exports go to the EU." Mr Schulz added that to overcome the crisis cooperation on a European level was needed, for example by investing in growth-boosting initiatives.

Ireland will be taking over the EU Council presidency in January 2013. Mr Schulz said he was looking forward to it: "Since joining, Ireland has made enormous contributions to European integration. Judging from very good past experiences with Irish presidencies, I know: this presidency will be an exceptional one."

Press release

Full speech



© European Parliament


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