Bruton: We had to comply with Troika conditions

Two Fine Gael Ministers have backed a call for the former President of the European Central Bank to be brought before an Oireachtas Banking Inquiry.

Richard Bruton and Leo Varadkar have said it would be welcome if Jean Claude Trichet gave evidence.

The call was made by the Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore in an interview with the Financial Times.

Mr Gilmore also describes the Troika as "austerity hawks" and insists Ireland should no longer be used as an "economic experiment".

The Jobs Minister said there was little choice but to accept the bailout when we were locked out of the market.

Mr Bruton said: "We had to comply with the conditions. I think everyone would agree that we have managed to see those conditions originally set by the Troika evolve to be much more constructive towards Ireland.

"It is true that there has been a degree of experimenting and learning here, but I think the Irish Government has managed that process well and has negotiated big improvements in the conditions."