Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick East, Fine Gael)

We must take care of the future of that baby in the Gallery.

Competitiveness is the main issue I wish to discuss. The OECD report refers to the fact that exports will fall. We are a small open economy and we must get exports to grow. Dr. Ken Whittaker was associated with Seán Lemass. To some extent they are synonymous. He stated categorically that our biggest problem was our lack of competitiveness. The Minister is probably aware that our exports fell for the first time in 2003. We became extremely uncompetitive and the economy began to depend on the construction sector. The key issue is to restore competitiveness, get back to being a small open economy and return to being export driven.

Deputy Bruton referred to the jobs initiative. At least something is on the table but I question its narrow focus. We have a large services sector in this country. People are losing their jobs and we need to consider how a rising tide can lift all boats. It appears the baby is in agreement with Fine Gael policy.

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