Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour)

It is opportune and important that we should address the underlying issues which threaten our competitiveness, but we cannot do so by adopting simplistic solutions or right wing views. We must recognise progress where it is made and ensure that we do not talk down the economy, which must be robust to take on and withstand the challenges ahead. Competitiveness is a multifaceted subject and we must examine all the factors and inputs in an integrated way to see how they interact. This will assist us in maintaining our ability to create sustainable jobs.

A simplistic analysis is fine. It may well be hammered out on the anvil of right wing solutions, but the Labour Party is not of that view. We take issue with significant elements of the motion tabled by Fine Gael. It is amazing that the motion does not refer to construction inflation, house price inflation or anything of that nature. In recent years, the increase in the price of houses has contributed to significant inflationary pressures. Many young people are unable to purchase houses or establish themselves on the property ladder. Mortgage interest has a significant input in this regard. Why are these inflationary issues not dealt with in the motion?

Another point I wish to raise relates to the rush to privatisation. Everyone is in favour of value for money. The Labour Party has no ideological hang-ups regarding PPPs. My colleague, Deputy Michael D. Higgins, has lead a campaign in respect of Ceannt Station in Galway, the site relating to which comprises 14.6 acres. As long ago as 2002, CIE suggested giving up nine of these acres for residential development. What is not needed in this instance is a rush towards privatisation or the giving away of valuable resources which the State needs to serve its people. A multi-modal, integrated regional transport infrastructure model is required for cities such as Galway. What must be done, in the first instance, is to examine the integrated provision required to serve the region. The idea of giving away a significant proportion of existing assets in a rush to satisfy some need for privatisation is absolutely and fundamentally crazy. It is also anathema to everything for which the Labour Party stands. Issues relating to how an integrated regional transport hub can be put in place in Galway must be dealt with first. That is why Deputy Michael D. Higgins has taken a strong and principled stand and we support him in his efforts.

I am surprised that the motion refers to public sector pay. Thousands of public servants are living on the bread line. At the lower end, 160,000 of them earn less than €35,000 per annum. How can anyone say that these people are causing a problem?

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