The Taoiseach has phoned the UK’s Prime Minister David Cameron to congratulate him on his re-election.

The two leaders have confirmed plans to meet for talks soon - with Britain's planned in-or-out EU Referendum likely to dominate relations between them in the years ahead.

David Cameron and the Conservatives victory in Thursday’s General Election confirmed what Enda Kenny has feared for some time - that Britain will hold a referendum on its EU membership.

If the UK was to leave in 2017 - when the Prime Minister intends to hold the vote - it would be a huge blow to Irish business; with about €1bn in trade between the two countries every week potentially put under a new system of tariffs and regulation.

It could also lead to a return of passport checks along the border with the North.

Enda Kenny also congratulated Mr Cameron on a ‘stunning victory’ - and said he looks forward to continuing their close working-relationship for the benefit of Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Speaking in Sligo, the Taoiseach said the referendum on Britain's EU membership has implications for Ireland: