Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The position of the Government is clear, in respect of the programme for Government, on burden sharing. I will repeat that since last Wednesday the focus of our discussions has been on relieving the burden on the Irish taxpayer. I would much prefer if our country was in a position to borrow from the bond markets and be in charge of our own destiny. Unfortunately, because of reckless actions, that is not possible, and we are currently constrained by the consequences of the deal that was done.

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