The Taoiseach Enda Kenny has told the European Parliament that ending 'the blight of youth unemployment' was an absolute priority for the Irish Presidency of the EU Council.

The address by Mr. Kenny to the MEPs marked the end of Ireland’s 6-month Presidency.

The Taoiseach said he was happy that a commitment for a youth guarantee scheme was reached - to help unemployed young people in Europe.

Enda Kenny says the EU must strive to get young people back to work.

The Taoiseach said securing an agreement on the EU 7-year budget known as the multi-annual financial framework was a major achievement of the Irish EU Presidency.

During his address to the Parliament this morning, Mr. Kenny outlined the difficulties in getting an agreement on the EU budget.

He also praised the European Minister Lucinda Creighton despite her recent outspoken opposition to aspects of the new abortion Bill.

While the President of the European Council, Herman Van Rompuy, also addressed the issue of financial stability for the Eurozone