The Taoiseach says Ireland intends on taking a major step towards recovery this year by exiting the bailout deal.

Enda Kenny made the comments after talks with the 27 EU Commissioners in Dublin Castle as part of the EU Presidency.

He says he told the College of Commissioners that the Irish recovery is in the interest of the wider European Union.

However the Taoiseach says securing a deal on our banking debt will play an important role in the process.