merrion street

Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore today welcomed the "yes" vote for the Stability Treaty.

Speaking at a press conference following the results, the Taoiseach said:

A clear majority have expressed support for Ireland ratifying the Stability Treaty and I welcome that and thank everyone who came out to vote Yes.

In doing so, the Irish people have sent a powerful signal around the world that this is a country that is serious about overcoming its economic challenges.

As I said throughout the campaign, this treaty will not solve all Ireland's problems but it is one of the many foundation blocks we need to put in place to ensure that our economy stands on firm ground in the future.

The clear and decisive verdict of the people will help to create the stability and certainty that investors in Ireland need. It will enable the strong flow of inward investment by multi-national companies to create new jobs to continue.

Welcoming the yes vote, the Tánaiste said:

As a Government, throughout this campaign, we have listened to the people.  We have listened to their strong and legitimate desire for a better deal on the burden of bank debt Ireland is carrying.

We have heard, and we understand, the daily pressures that people are facing – in relation to their mortgages; their jobs; their businesses; their living standards; and the prospects for their future, and that of their children.

We all want this country to recover.  For jobs to be created.  For a better, more hopeful future for all of our people.

This result will strengthen our hand in our discussions with European institutions and other member states.  We will use this decision, not just to ratify the Treaty, but to promote in Europe and in Ireland, the policies and steps which are necessary to create jobs for those who are unemployed; to bring investment into our country; and to generate growth.