Cowen backs standby credit line

Former taoiseach Brian Cowen has suggested an emergency credit line should be in place when Ireland exits the bailout after saying the “best contingencies” possible should be provided.

He also said he hoped the Coalition would in time come to remember the Fianna Fáil budgets he oversaw which he said helped stabilise the country.

He was also critical of the recent attack on fellow former taoiseach Bertie Ahern but said individuals were entitled to their opinion as long as there was mutual respect.