Kenny: Ireland going 'in the right direction'

Taoiseach Enda Kenny has held talks with the President of the European Commission on the economic crisis.

Measures to tackle Europe’s financial downturn were on the agenda during discussions with Jose Manuel Barroso.

After the meeting, Mr Kenny said he gave a good report of Ireland’s success in correcting its finances.

“I was happy to report to the President that Ireland is indeed headed in the right direction, that confidence is returning and that commentary internationally from business, economics and from a political perspective sees a country that imposed discipline on itself and is meeting the conditions by the Government working with the people,” he told RTE Radio.

“I look forward to the European Council where I can argue from a point of some strength of holding out Ireland as an example.”

The pair also focused on identifying means of generating jobs and growth.

Mr Barroso is expected to unveil proposals to recapitalise European banks during the day.

The meeting took place ahead of the summit of EU heads of state or government on October 23.