"With the counting of votes continuing in the Irish General Election 2011 and the results confirming the exit poll, it is now clear that Fine Gael leader, Mr. Enda Kenny, has led his party to an unprecedented victory and will be officially named Taoiseach in the coming days," said Joseph Daul MEP, Chairman of the EPP Group in the European Parliament. "I am delighted to say that soon the EPP will  have its 15th government leader out of the 27 Member States."

"The Irish people have called for change by exercising their democratic right in a dramatic change to the Irish political landscape after record numbers turned out to vote. Fine Gael, a founding member of the EPP political family, has clearly secured by far the largest number of votes and will now lead the next Irish government."

"Personally, and on behalf of the 265 Members of the EPP Group, I wish to congratulate Enda Kenny and Fine Gael on their great success. In the current climate of economic crisis the Irish people need strong leadership and I am confident Enda Kenny and Fine Gael can provide that leadership," Joseph Daul concluded.

Link to results page of the Irish national broadcaster, RTE

For further information:

Joseph DAUL MEP, Chairman of the EPP Group, Tel: +32-2-2847525

Antoine Ripoll, Chairman's Spokesman, Tel: +32-475-856290

Cliona Connolly, EPP Group Press and Communications Service, Tel: +32-475-957874

Notes to Editors:

The EPP is by far the largest and most influential political group in the European Parliament with 265 Members.