Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)

The Tánaiste had cause for great celebration yesterday and I wish him the best for himself, his family and his party. Having occasionally jousted with him in respect of matters relating to finance, I sometimes think that Fianna Fáil is more of a religion than a political party to him. When it comes to governing the country, I hope he will pay attention to the broader public issues and realise that Fianna Fáil does not necessarily have the answer to every problem. I accept that it has the answer in respect of many matters and I know the Tánaiste is of the view that he has the answer to everything. However, those in the Labour Party have a different view.

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