Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)

The Government makes no apology in setting out its ambitious programme for Government. The first aim of the Government is to renegotiate the terms of the IMF-EU deal. We believe the deal is not working for Ireland and that it must be renegotiated so that we have a path to growth that will get the country back on its feet. We believe the issue of interest rate payments on the package of funds must be renegotiated. We also believe in the renegotiation of a bank restructuring scheme across the European zone and in renegotiation of the terms of the debt that applies in this country. We stand by this first principle, which is contained in the programme for Government.

Second, we make a clear commitment that we will get the deficit down to 3% by 2015. It is because of our belief that we must pay our way in the world and resolve the historical legacy we face from our immediate predecessors that we want to address that issue. We have made difficult choices. For example, we have said that in terms of the aggregated adjustment for 2011 and 2012, we will stick by the general parameters set by the previous Government. I remember the election campaign in my constituency. I have not been elected by any elite and will not accept that cheap jibe from anyone. I was elected by ordinary people in Dublin South-West, ordinary people concerned about the fiscal position of the country who want to address that position and get us out of the cycle of no growth and an utter dependency on an international package that is not delivering for the country. We want to ensure that this country gets back onto a growth path. However, if we are serious about addressing this issue, we must confront the fundamental fiscal reality that faces this country right now due to the mismanagement of the previous Government.

Sinn Féin seeks the immediate abolition of the USC and the reinstatement of the income and health levies, as outlined in its motion. I believe this would be a foolhardy action in advance of a full and proper review. The terms of reference for the review of the USC are being finalised and the Minister has already invited Sinn Féin and any other interested parties to make submissions. I reiterate that view. If people believe there is a better way than what has been put in place by the universal social charge-----

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