IMF 'unlikely to take over Irish economy'

A top official at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said that the organisation is not likely to take over the running of Ireland's finances.

Since the economic collapse, some commentators have suggested the IMF could step in if order is not restored to the country's finances.

However Caroline Atkinson, director of external relations with the IMF, says the organisation views itself as a "doctor with a patient", rather than police "with a criminal".