Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)

I commend my colleague, Deputy Varadkar, on moving this motion. Unemployment is affecting many people, both young and old, in every community. The harsh reality of unemployment is a cause of concern to everybody, including the Government. Last week alone, 700 temporary jobs were lost in Limerick city, with profound effects on parts of my constituency. Tipperary town has one of the highest unemployment rates and is one of the most disadvantaged towns in the country, according to statistics. There is real worry in the area with regard to Dell. I do not want to be a prophet of gloom but the Government has a clear responsibility in respect of Dell. If anything happened, there would be a major effect on the economy of Limerick, Clare, south Tipperary and north Tipperary.

There are major problems. The uncompetitiveness in the economy and the inability of the Government to keep costs low show what is lacking. I refer to the inability to provide better essential infrastructure, transport and communications. Broadband in smaller villages is so slow that it is unbelievable. Last week the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Ryan, announced the deferral of broadband to certain areas. That is unfair to many people in difficult economic times.

In South Tipperary the number of unemployed people under the age of 25 has risen by67%. Shame on the Government that unemployment has been allowed to creep up higher and higher, to worrying proportions, while the Government has been busy calling Fine Gael prophets of doom.

We must improve access to training for every person who loses a job or is on the live register. There are various questions about FÁS, which has a great role to play in helping the unemployed. Across the country, many people have been trained by FÁS and we should not forget the impact this has had on our community.

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