Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

-----a number of questions about the action plan for jobs. Earlier today a group of Independent Deputies met the US ambassador and one of the issues we discussed was the action plan for jobs. Three issues arose during the discussion which are relevant to today's debate. I asked how the US managed to start reducing unemployment over the past several months and the three reasons given were stimulus, banks starting to lend and an acceptance that austerity did not work. These are three sensible options which have reduced unemployment in other countries.

In broad, general terms, I welcome any plan that creates jobs. It would be easy for me to start jumping up and down to score points for the sake if it but that would not be good for the unemployed or the country.

See this speech in context