Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

The purpose of this motion of confidence is to focus on the performance of the Government and to measure whether, having examined that performance, Dáil Éireann retains its confidence - as the Constitution requires - in the Taoiseach and his Ministers. It also gives us an opportunity to examine the alternatives and what they have to offer.

Last week we voted in town and county council elections. It was clear that the Opposition succeeded in expressing its views. I congratulate Members of the Opposition on their victories. Let us look at what it offers the people at national level.

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