Van Rompuy: Confidence back in Ireland

European Council President Herman Van Rompuy has said yesterday's successful debt auction is another sign that confidence is back in Ireland.

The National Treasury Management Agency raised €2.5bn in a sale of five-year bonds at interest of 3.3%.

Herman Van Rompuy made his remarks after talks with the Taoiseach Enda Kenny and the Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore at Dublin Castle.

President Van Rompuy said the country was a good example to all on how to handle the economic crisis.

"Through painful but unavoidable efforts, you have consistently met all your targets and, more importantly, you are recreating your potential for growth and jobs," he said.

"The successful (NTMA) bond auction yesterday is yet another sign that confidence is back in Ireland."