The President of the European Parliament says he believes the European Union should keep promises made to Ireland in June on our banking debt.

Comments from 3 Finance Ministers threw the plan into doubt last week after they stated the bailout fund should not be used to deal with so-called legacy debt.

Martin Schulz is addressing the Dáil today during a visit which will also take in discussions on the upcoming Irish EU Presidency.

He has pointed out that Ireland is facing a lot of problems to generate economic growth and the relief that was promised on banking debt should be followed through.

The Taoiseach told Mr. Schulz that the June leaders deal to ease our banking debt needs to be implemented.

It is something that he agrees with.

The President of the European Commission also said yesterday he wants the issue of Irish legacy debt dealt with before we takeover the Presidency of the EU on January 1st.

Jose-Manuel Barosso met with the Taoiseach in Brussels on Wednesday.

Mr. Barosso said he understands that real sacrifices are being made and also paid tribute to Ireland and the government for reducing our budget deficit.

Speaking on Breakfast here on Newstalk EU Parliament chief Schulz said he and the majority of the Parliament think Ireland should be given the relief in debt that was promised.

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