Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 July 2015
107. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Finance his views that there has been enough engagement between the European Union and the Greek Government on dealing with its debt issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27066/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraDiscussions regarding the Greek programme, its financing needs and the sustainability of its debt take place at the euro area level, involving Finance Ministers (the Eurogroup).
The Eurogroup in its statement of November 2012 committed to considering further measures and assistance (including inter alia lower co-financing in structural funds and/or further interest rate reductions on the Greek Loan Facility) to achieve a further credible and sustainable reduction of Greek debt-to-GDP ratio; this was conditional upon Greece achieving an annual primary surplus as well as on full implementation of all conditions contained in the (second) programme.
As I have said on numerous occassions, I have great sympathy for the Greek people and I along with my euro area colleagues have worked to help the Greek authorities to move to a position whereby realistic negotiations were taking place up to 26th June.
Unfortunately, the Greek authorities unilaterally withdrew from negotiations before agreement could be reached or the issue of debt was discussed or agreed upon by the Eurogroup.
I note the results from Sunday's Referendum in Greece.
I hope that following this result the Greek Government will continue to engage in discussions with fellow Member States in an effort to provide certainty for the Greek people and return stability to their economy. Ireland will continue to engage in an effort to reach a successful conclusion to any negotiations.
