Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

——that the partnership process has much to contribute in the context of the economic and financial crisis that confronts us. I agree with David Begg that it would be unwise to resume formal negotiations unless there is a reasonable degree of confidence that agreement on all the central elements can be found. While I remain available for dialogue with the social partners, the basis for a resumption of formal negotiations has not been established at this time. However, I will continue to be available for dialogue. I say to everyone that the Government is seeking to address this issue, and the magnitude of the problem we face, in a fair and equitable way on the basis of this first measure, which should not be isolated from the series of measures that will have to be taken in terms of both fiscal policy and further expenditure adjustments. The State is not in receipt of the revenues it had in the past and, therefore, must make adjustments with the aim not just of trying to re-establish industrial relations harmony, but of retaining jobs as far as possible — many jobs are being lost as we speak — and regaining competitiveness so that we can export goods and services in a way which allows us to maintain jobs at home to a greater extent than was the case up to now.

See this speech in context