Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

Does the Tánaiste agree that the 27 stealth taxes introduced since the previous general election have contributed to higher costs? There is no competition in the electricity or gas business or in many of our public utilities, yet the Tánaiste is the leader of a political party which has supposedly made its name on its stated desire to liberalise the economy and create more competition.

Ireland is the most expensive country in Europe, Dublin is the fourth most expensive city in Europe and our level of competitiveness is falling all the time which, unfortunately, is the political outcome of the Tánaiste's seven-year term of office. Now I know why she is anxious to move on. Some 27 stealth taxes have been introduced along with a 1% increase in VAT on electricity and to be added to excise duty. A total of 75% of all the costs and charges associated with inflation are Government-related and the Tánaiste has been a member of that Government for the past seven years.

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