Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

The motion is correct in pointing to productivity as an important part of competitiveness. Without strong productivity growth, we cannot maintain high standards of living and high incomes. However, Fine Gael has chosen to ignore the fact that our productivity levels have converged with those of the OECD and continue to improve. The important sectors in which our economy is successful show significant and positive productivity differences against our competitors. For example, in chemicals, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, finance, and even agriculture and food, our productivity is not only above rates in the most developed EU countries, but also higher than the much acclaimed and vaunted rates of the United States. In another part of the NCC report ignored by Fine Gael, it is recognised that we have a strong or improving performance when it comes to productivity growth in services and in the primary sectors of the economy.

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