merrion street

Taoiseach Enda Kenny said :

 I want to extend my congratulations, and that of the Irish Government, to Emmanuel Macron on his victory in the French presidential election.

I am delighted that a leader with a positive ambition for Europe has won this election decisively and will join us with a strong mandate in the European Council.

Ireland and France share close bonds; from General Humbert in my own county of Mayo in 1798 to the joyous scenes all over France at the European Championships last Summer. Our shared history has been both deep and varied. The future also holds promise as both countries work towards a European Union of prosperity and equality for all our citizens.

There's lots of work ahead for all of us in Europe, in a challenging environment, not least on Brexit. I am confident that under Emmanuel Macron's leadership, France will continue to play an important role in the EU. 

This outstanding result is a strong signal of confidence in the future of the European Union in which France will play a significant part in the time ahead.