Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

I agree with Deputy Bruton that the protection of existing jobs and the retraining of those who do not have jobs must form the cornerstone of our job strategy. We already have programmes in place to protect businesses already providing employment through the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. We already have training and retraining arrangements in place. We must examine how appropriate and focused these are in current circumstances.

I also agree with Deputy Bruton in that there is clearly a shortage of investment funds available for the Government for the implementation of the national development plan. In that context I will examine any constructive proposals for alternative financing for important public projects.

See this speech in context