Kenny to speak to Hollande this week

The Taoiseach has said that he hopes to speak to the new French president this week.

“I have congratulated Francois Hollande, and I expect to be able to speak to him, hopefully this week,’’ he said.

Speaking in the Dáil today, Mr Kenny said that he would support Mr Hollande’s call for additional measures for growth and investment.

“The more that European economies can grow and prosper, the better it is for our country,’’ he added.

Fianna Fáil leader Micheal Martin said there was a need to get specifics on the growth agenda.

“Ireland should be tabling some measures because an opportunity does exist now, particularly in terms of something over and above the fiscal treaty,’’ he added.

Mr Martin said that Fianna Fáil had consistently argued that the treaty was an essential step for Ireland’s recovery, but much more was needed.