Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

The disingenuous nature of contributions and proposals emanating from Opposition benches over recent months served the parties opposite well last week. I congratulate them on their ability to play politics. The wonderland schools of Deputy Kenny's economics and Deputy Gilmore's spin gave the impression that the public would not have to face painful taxation, or spending and service provision changes under an Opposition Administration. It is a privilege of being on the other side of the House.

The election is now over, but the adjusted live register figure stands at more than 400,000. It is time for the superficial positioning to stop. The constant argument that we would not start from here does not wash. If the Deputies opposite are sincere about their desire to see Ireland return to the path of economic recovery and growth, it is time for serious proposals to be placed on the table which reflect the realities of our economic situation. If not, then motions like that proposed today are merely playing to the gallery at a time when there is much serious work to be undertaken by Government and this House.

The policies being pursued by this Government are the correct policies at a time of difficult policy choices. They are clearly not policies designed for short-term political gain. They are, however, policies that, in the medium to long term, will result in Ireland's course being righted. The public will recognise this and, having been on the doorsteps like everyone else over recent weeks, I know that many already understand the situation.

See this speech in context