Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

In regard to our jobs strategy, first, as a prerequisite to economic recovery, we must get our public finances into order. Second, we have increased the number of placement schemes available for people who are out of work. Third, we are trying to ensure reductions in costs. We are already seeing such reductions, as well as improvements in competitiveness in terms of a reduction in wage costs.

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