Ireland to set out EU role

Ireland will set out its plan for the EU presidency in top-level talks in Dublin today.

Herman Van Rompuy, president of the European Council, is in the capital to meet Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore.

Discussions will centre on the Irish programme and priorities for its six-month stint at the helm of the Union, which began this month.

The plan – entitled 'For Stability, Jobs and Growth' – will also be published.

The main objectives will include securing stability in the European economy as well as stronger and more effective economic governance.

They are also expected to discuss trade policy and energy.

The EU’s future financing and Brussels’ budget for 2014-2020 will be high on the agenda.

The Government wants to focus on boosting EU trade and exports with overseas partners, including the US, during its time in charge.