Michael Kennedy (Dublin North, Fianna Fail)

I thank Deputies O'Rourke and Thomas Byrne for sharing time. I was supposed to speak during the slot mentioned by Deputy O'Rourke but there was some confusion.

I echo the same thought on the negativity emanating from the far side of the House which is bordering on the ridiculous. We have not heard one proposal on how to deal with the €2 billion savings needed in the public finances. Like the Acting Chairman, in my previous business life I was taught to believe that one can only make real criticism by having a viable alternative to put in place. I do not see any such alternatives coming from the Opposition. Having listened to Deputy Joan Burton again this morning, I believe she is becoming the queen of gloom and doom. This Parliament, along with business leaders, unions, farmers and all communities must play a positive role. We need to instill confidence in the public for the sake of our future generations.

We need to balance out the bad news and recognise that the glass is half full and not half empty. We should recognise that we have 2 million people at work, most of them with good disposable incomes. The negativity emanating from this House discourages people from spending. Yes, we need to cut out extravagance but we must encourage people who have disposable income to avail of the good value now pertaining in goods and services. Why not have the odd meal out in a restaurant? Why not have the odd break in an Irish hotel? Why not carry out that renovation to the house? Likewise, to any person who had planned to change the family car — why not do so? The economy needs it. We must make money go around and there is exceptional value to be had at present.

Yesterday was an exceptionally good news day. Did we hear much about it in the media? We had agreement by the social partners to engage in talks which we hope will be successful. The Intel CEO confirmed that Ireland is an ideal fast-track smart economy.

I wish all the participants in the discussions well. The country is depending upon them. I admire the philosophy of the Taoiseach and Government in continuing to engage the social partners to bring about the agreement which is badly needed. I hope the unions, business people, farmers and the Government will conclude their negotiations satisfactorily next week and will be able to state that they did it their way.

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