Micheál Martin
Question:54. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach if he will report on the bilateral meetings that he attended in Finland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28962/13]
View answerDáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 June 2013
54. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach if he will report on the bilateral meetings that he attended in Finland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28962/13]
View answerI travelled to Helsinki on 7 June for bilateral meetings with President Niinisto and Prime Minister Katainen.
Discussions in my meeting with President Niinisto focussed on Syria; Russia; the Eastern Partnership; and bilateral relations between Ireland and Finland. We also discussed the economic situation in Europe and I updated President Niinisto on Ireland's economic recovery.
Discussion in my meeting with Prime Minister Katainen focussed on economic matters, including Ireland's economic recovery; preparations for the June European Council; the Multi-annual Financial Framework; and the ambitions for the remaining part of the Irish Presidency. We agreed the urgent need to tackle unemployment and to ensure financing to the SME sector.