Rehn: 'Irish committed to intensify technical talks'

The Irish Republic has insisted it will work with the European authorities to overcome its budget deficit crisis, which the EU fears could engulf other vulnerable countries using the euro.

Ireland is resisting offers of a bailout from international financial institutions, concerned about a loss of economic autonomy.

Officials from the EU and the International Monetary Fund are going to Dublin to examine what further steps can be taken.

Speaking to reporters after a meeting of European finance ministers in Brussels, the European Economic Affairs Commissioner, Olli Rehn, said the talks with Ireland would continue.