Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

Listening to the Minister of State, Deputy McGuinness, I am reminded of that. Deputy Jack Wall made that point. If I had lots of time I would debate with Deputy English, but as I do not, I will get through my four minutes as best I can.

It is important we understand that with the economy being challenged, a number of issues are important, and one of these is to inspire confidence and ensure investment is still forthcoming, including from abroad, and jobs are being created.

Deputy McGuinness's contribution reminds me that 24 years ago I and other colleagues living in Tallaght got involved in an organisation called Get Tallaght Working which was involved with local enterprise. That organisation is thriving in Tallaght and providing jobs. It is very important that we continue to do that. To balance that, I agree with everything that has been said about the need for all of us to remain loyal to our social inclusion policies and ideals. When the economy was thriving, Deputy Bertie Ahern, my fellow Dubliner, said that when boats are rising one must remember the little boats. This week we must look after the little boats.

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