Chris Andrews (Dublin South East, Fianna Fail)

The first is concerned with addressing the banking situation to restore credibility nationally and internationally and get credit flowing. The establishment of the NAMA is necessary and critical to restoring our damaged banking system. There is a case against the establishment of the NAMA, but the case in favour of it is stronger. This measure will restore the credit flow to businesses which are in critical need of working capital. I look forward to the NAMA beginning its work and I am confident that the best interests of the Irish taxpayer will be served.

The second pillar is concerned with attacking the gap in our public finances by increasing revenue and cutting spending, in a planned way, over the next five years. Difficult choices have been and will have to be made, but it is in the best interests of the economy and the country. The third pillar is concerned with protecting as many jobs as we can, restoring competitiveness to the way we do business and supporting viable businesses which are vulnerable. There are many businesses that are doing business every day but are finding it difficult. They are good, solid businesses and they need the support. They are vulnerable, as I said.

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