Michael Kennedy (Dublin North, Fianna Fail)

When one thinks in terms of where Ireland has come from and where it will go, the programme we have before us today is very balanced and reasonable.

With regard to jobseeker's benefit, I commend the Minister for making people under 24 go on educational and training courses. It is one issue I have heard many comments on from my constituents over the years. Quite a number of young people never seem to do anything to further their education, they are never interested on going a training course but will walk down to the dole office every week to collect their €200.

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