Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)

The majority of families are finding the going difficult. Whether it is due to a lack of employment, reduced incomes or so on, they are feeling the pinch. Whether one is in government or opposition, strong leadership is required. It is important that Deputies, in our actions and whatever words we utter, be sincere and responsible. We are in a privileged position and it is important to treat it in that way. In these difficult times, it is also important that we give the people hope and that we make the House and the discussions held in it relevant to the people who put us here in the first place.

In dealing with the motion before the House, we should remember 10 October 2008 when Deputy Kenny, as Leader of the Opposition, held a pre-budget press conference. He was flanked that day by Deputies Bruton and O'Donnell. Obviously without any consultation, he announced that he had written to the Paymaster General asking for a 5% pay cut. This was done with no consultation within his party.

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