Cowen in final talks with EU counterparts

The Taoiseach Brian Cowen will travel to Brussels today for his final meeting with EU heads of state and government.

Violent clashes in Egypt, the economy and the euro will be discussed by the European Council throughout the day.

Elsewhere members will review the European Financial Stability Facility and hold talks on the European Commission’s legislative proposals on economic governance.

Mr Cowen and his EU counterparts will also consider energy and innovation policy, with these two sectors being key to Europe’s future growth and prosperity.

It is the last time the outgoing Taoiseach will attend the European Council before the February 25 general election.