Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

Yes, I also remember that the Deputy was a member of a Government that, even with the surplus, decided that 30 bob was enough for an old age pensioner. I also recall that with the surplus it decided that €1 million was sufficient for emergency disability services. I have heard all the political rhetoric and hypocrisy that passes for current political dialogue as a result of the present situation. I stand over my record; the Deputy should try to stand over his.

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