Gilmore rejects second bailout claim

Eamon Gilmore insisted Ireland was on track to exit its bailout programme by the end of next year, despite claims by Fianna Fáil that the country was likely to need a second financial rescue package.

The Tánaiste dismissed claims by Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin that Ireland could need a second bailout when money from the current one runs out at the end of 2013.

However, Mr Gilmore did warn that some kind of a second deal may be needed if voters rejected the EU treaty next week.