‘Existing mechanisms’ may form part of EU credit deal

The continuation of saving controls in the current Irish bailout programme with the EU and IMF could form part of a deal for a second emergency credit line under proposals being considered.

Finance Minister Michael Noonan and Brendan Howlin, the public expenditure minister, met troika mission members in Dublin yesterday as it began its final 10-day visit here under the bailout.

A key area being monitored by troika officials is health where James Reilly faces pressure to introduce cuts of €666m next year.