In a number of member states, particularly some older ones, there is a fear that economic reform will undermine social protection, ... Such fear is not only misplaced but counterproductive.

Lots of member states seem to be wanting to put up unjustified barriers.

The concerns expressed in the draft recommendation are based on the wrong premise. The Commission's assessment and the Broad Economic Policy Guidelines advises Ireland to seek to achieve economic stability. This is exactly what the Irish government has sought to do in the budget in a number of ways,

I don't think he's lost any of his zeal for Social Security reform, ... The action has sort of shifted to the Hill now and the Ways and Means Committee so we'll have to kind of see what they can come up with.

It would be regrettable if such a letter was sent, particularly if it provoked disagreement between member states.

I don't think we were trying to mislead anybody or undermine the process.