Hogan: Half-mast Tricolour idea 'not appropriate'

Environment Minister Phil Hogan has hit out at a European Commissioner for suggesting we fly the Tricolor at half mast as punishment for ending up in the bailout programme.

Germany's EU Commissioner Guenther Oettinger said countries in financial difficulty should have their flags lowered in front of EU buildings in an act of symbolism.

The suggestion has been roundly condemned by politicians from all sides.

Phil Hogan said the suggestion was "not appropriate".

"Ireland is well able to stand up for itself. The Irish people, together with the Government, are playing a major role to resolve our own affairs as quickly as possible and get back our economic sovereignty."