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

My jury is out on the issue with regard to ESB employees. ESB employees have been on to me to make their case. I do not know whether they rang Fine Gael spokespersons, but they make a strong case for themselves. It is important we hear their case.

As vice-chairman of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Social and Family Affairs, which is chaired by Deputy Jackie Healy-Rae, I have chaired a number of sittings at which groups presented strong cases I would support with regard to social inclusion. I always say that when all boats are struggling, we must remember the little boats. People in disadvantaged communities, people who are unemployed, the vulnerable and the aged would say they have even greater difficulties with regard to energy costs than others.

The Minister made the point about co-operation with the authorities in Northern Ireland. As a member of the British-Irish Assembly, I support that. It is important we work with partners right across the island. I hope we do that. I look forward to engaging my friends from Fine Gael on another occasion and thank the Chair for its courtesy.

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