Barroso praises 'big sacrifices' made by Irish people
European Commission President José Manuel Barroso said today that Ireland's commitment to reform is paying off.
Mr Barroso and the 27 EU Commissioners are attending talks in Dublin Castle today as part of the EU Presidency.
He said that Ireland has shown an unwavering commitment in implementing the conditions of the EU/IMF bailout deal.
President Barroso said that Ireland is now on track to exiting the programme by the end of the year, although challenges remain.
"I know that these past few years have not been at all easy for the Irish people who have had to make big sacrifices to ensure the recovery," he said.
"But I believe the commitment to reform is paying off
"While important challenges remain, Ireland is on track to completing the program as planned at the end of the year."
