Ireland urged to strengthen ties with European neighbours

Ireland needs to strengthen its ties with our European neighbours if we are to ensure our economic recovery.

That is the message coming from a meeting of EU politicians in Dublin Castle today.

The Taoiseach Enda Kenny will take part in the discussions which are expected to include global development policies and the contributions of Europe's youngest citizens.

Chairman of the European Union Affairs Committee, Dominic Hannigan, said that becoming more involved in Europe will not mean we will lose our individuality.

"We have a very strong culture here in Ireland, we have managed throughout the centuries to retain the unique identity of Irishness," he said.

"I do think we need to move close together in some areas such as economic union to make sure that the European Union benefits us all and continues to grow and continues to offer jobs and employment and hope."