Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

I thank Deputies for their contributions, in particular newly elected Deputies such as Deputies Creighton, Michael McGrath and Kennedy, whom I congratulate on their election. I wish to make several general points before addressing the specific issues raised by Deputies.

I am somewhat taken aback by the strong anti-PIAB sentiment expressed by the Opposition and in particular by Fine Gael Members, despite their efforts to mask it. I regret the personalisation of some of the attacks in regard, for example, to the chairperson. That should not be part of any debate in this House. Furthermore, does anyone seriously think the Government's agenda is to trample on the fundamental rights of citizens?

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