merrion street

The Taoiseach, Mr Enda Kenny TD, will meet with the German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, in Berlin today. The visit forms part of the Taoiseach’s ongoing engagement with European leaders in the run up to Ireland’s EU Presidency, which starts on 1 January 2013. The discussions between the Taoiseach and the Chancellor are expected to address the Government's priorities for the Irish Presidency, progress in relation to the Irish financial programme, bilateral relations between the two countries and European developments including challenges in the Euro zone.

While in Berlin, the Taoiseach will also formally launch “The Gathering” in Germany. At an event in the Irish Embassy he will speak to tourism journalists and members of the Irish community about the plans for this year-long programme of festivals, events and other gatherings which aim to bring an additional 325,000 extra overseas visitors to Ireland. Germany is an extremely important trade and investment partner for Ireland and the Taoiseach intends to meet with a number of Irish and German companies with a view to further enhancing this relationship.

12.30pm Bilateral meeting between the Taoiseach and Chancellor Angela Merkel

The meeting will be followed by short statements and a Q&A session

Venue: Chancellor's Office

3.00pm Launch of the Gathering in Germany

Venue: Irish Embassy, Berlin