Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

Yes.

I listened to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Martin, refer to speeches made by Members of the Opposition as being superficial and shallow. Deputy Martin was Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment as Ireland slid down the competitive league like a downhill skier. Despite numerous reports, the Minister did nothing as we slipped down that chain. Consequently, the Minister is as culpable as anyone else for the difficulties in which we found ourselves as our exports tumbled and our competitiveness stumbled. The Minister held the reins during that period and while the finger of blame has not pointed at him yet, it will do so in time to come. Certainly, when historians examine this period, he will be blamed.

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