Economist's O'Brien warns of increased bankruptcy risk

A leading European economist says the likelihood of Ireland's going bankrupt has increased.

Dan O'Brien of 'The Economist' says he now puts the risk now at 25%, up from 15% which he said was the risk a year ago. He is appearing before the Oireachtas Committee on European Affairs this afternoon.

Mr O'Brien said the increased risk was from external factors, rather than anthing the Government has or failed to do.