Hogan dismisses Burton claim Ireland will need second bailout

The Environment Minister Phil Hogan has slammed comments made by the Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton, that Ireland will need to avail of a second bailout unless the European debt crisis is quickly resolved.

Mr Hogan said this is Ms Burton's own personal opinion and not that of the Government.

Last week, the Taoiseach Enda Kenny and the Finance Minister Michael Noonan described as "ludicrous" suggestions that Ireland will need a second rescue loan from the Troika.

Mr Hogan said: "I am actually fully compliant with Government policy which is the statement issued by the Taoiseach in recent days that there is no intention to seek a second bailout.

"We are going to pay our way as part of the EU/IMF programme."