Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

To suggest we have blown the boom is probably the most disingenuous accusation often made across the Opposition benches. We have faced into the challenges of today from a position of strength, coming from the good years when we invested smartly with purpose in Ireland's economic and social infrastructure and in our long-term future while also paying down national debt. That should not be forgotten.

On this side of the House we have overseen transformations in transport, water, communications and investment in education. I take umbrage at the comments on education by Opposition Members. When the Labour Party left the Department dealing with education we only had 300 special needs assistants but we now have 10,000. There has been significant investment in 1,490 schools across the country this year, benefiting very much from investments in summer work schemes and capital.

We know the path to recovery will not be easy and I am sure the political temperature will remain high in future. I am honoured to have worked closely with the Taoiseach, Deputy Brian Cowen and I believe in his competence in leading this Government and the country through the difficult and challenging tasks ahead.

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