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Comments from Minister for Finance Minister, Michael Noonan on the decision taken at Eurogroup

Speaking on the decision taken at Eurogroup this evening to examine the extension of maturities on Ireland's and Portugal's EFSF loans, Minister for Finance Michael Noonan, T.D. stated:

"The decision by the Eurogroup this evening (21st January 2013) to examine the extension of the maturities on Ireland’s and Portugal’s EFSF loans is a very welcome and positive development. This recognises the efforts being made by well performing programme countries.

The Eurogroup agreed to refer this issue to senior officials to examine the technical details and they will report back shortly. This has the potential to further enhance Ireland’s debt sustainability and to facilitate our successful full return to the markets.

I look forward to the conclusion of this examination as soon as possible.

In terms of the EFSM loans, a similar request will be made at ECOFIN tomorrow”

Notes to editors:

Liabilities Outstanding at 31 December 2012

http://www.ntma.ie/business-areas/funding-and-debt-management/euimf-programme/