The International Monetary Fund today postponed consideration of a €22.5 billion loan for Ireland to allow the Dáil time to discuss the wider joint IMF-European Union rescue plan.
"In deference to Ireland's parliamentary process, the IMF has decided to postpone consideration by its board of the proposed loan under the Extended Fund Facility until after the debate," an IMF spokesperson said in a statement.
The spokesperson said the IMF's board, which had been set to vote on the loan today, could consider the aid as early as Thursday "assuming parliamentary support for the package."
Taoiseach Brian Cowen yesterday called for the Dáil to consider the joint €85 billion rescue package, a surprise move aimed at embarrassing political rivals. The Dáil is scheduled to vote on Wednesday.
The Government has already moved to put in a place budget savings required as a condition for the release of IMF-EU rescue funds. The Dáil today approved the third of four bills that would underpin the 2011 budget.
The IMF said the votes on the budget reflected Ireland's determination to tackle its debt problem.
"We welcome the first implementation measures of the 2011 budget - stipulating the fiscal consolidation path and important reform measures involved in the program - have recently been passed by the Irish Parliament, confirming Ireland's strong commitment to the program and the policies involved," the IMF spokesperson said.
Reuters