Taoiseach Enda Kenny is to receive a special award from a German business group for being a good European.

The accolade is not just for Mr Kenny but for "Ireland and the Irish people", recognising the "genuine hardship being experienced by many Irish people" under austerity policies.

Following on from his appearance on the front cover of 'Time' magazine, Mr Kenny's popularity continues to blossom on the international stage.

Enda Kenny will be awarded the 'Golden Victoria European of the Year 2012' in Berlin next month, and will be presented with a 12-inch bronze statuette depicting Nike, the Greek god of victory.

The Taoiseach is already due to visit German Chancellor Angela Merkel in early November to discuss preparations for Ireland's EU Presidency and the prospects of a deal on our bank debt.

The award to Mr Kenny is being presented by the German Magazine Publishers Association (VDZ).

The accolade also recognises Mr Kenny's "strong contribution to Europe and commitment to European ideals" both as Taoiseach and throughout his many years in public life.

The VDZ represents the publishers of 6,000 magazines in Germany.

Mr Kenny will be honoured at a ceremony in Berlin, the Publishers' Night 2012, which is described as the most important annual event for German media.