Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

Behind every statistic is a reality. I refer, for example, to families whose concerns are being exacerbated by the fact that their job security is at risk. I understand those concerns. I acknowledge that the unemployment rate of 9% is still too high and is rising. The Department of Finance, in the figures it submitted to the European Commission, has taken account and made provision in respect of those trends. As far as it is concerned, however, the €2 billion correction is needed in order to try to stabilise the position. That is why we made our announcement yesterday in respect of the decision that has been made.

See this speech in context