Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

In September 2008 the Taoiseach gave this House and the country two guarantees: that the Government would stabilise the banking system and that it would provide for credit to flow to business. He has failed on both counts and his strategy is in tatters. The banks have been bailed out three times - by the guarantee, by recapitalisation, and by the passing of the National Assets Management Agency Bill - and they are now looking for more. They are about to increase charges and interest rates on variable mortgages. The response from Government has been silence.

In September 2008 the number of people on the live register was 240,000. What is that number today?

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