IMF gives Ireland eighth chunk of bailout aid

The International Monetary Fund said Ireland was on track with the conditions of its 85 billion euro bailout program, and disbursed the country's next chunk of aid on Monday.

The IMF, one of a trio of lenders helping Ireland deal with its budget woes, said Ireland's "steadfast policy implementation" continued even as growth slowed this year.

The IMF's board approved the next disbursal of about $1.2 billion, bringing to $25 billion the total funds that Ireland has received so far. The country must meet conditions attached to the loan to get each subsequent disbursement.

(Reporting by Anna Yukhananov; Editing by Eric Walsh)