Michael Ahern (Cork East, Fianna Fail)

Exactly. I agree with the Deputy.

What also happened back in the 1970s and early 1980s was that there was a pull-back of funding for apprenticeships. When we came out of that downturn, there was a lack of skilled craftspeople. That must not be allowed to happen now. Inflation has also been mentioned. I have heard some Opposition speakers claim we have a very high rate of inflation compared with the rest of the EU. However, they are comparing apples with oranges. When using the EU harmonised index our inflation rate is approximately 3.2% compared with the EU average of 3.8%. When people are quoting figures they should consider the facts. We would have a better debate if they spoke about facts rather than fiction. I accept the Opposition has a job to question the Government but it should speak factually. I have confidence that my colleagues in government have the ability and courage to take the right decisions to protect the country's achievements to date and to chart the way forward through the troubled waters we are now in.

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