Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)

This Government took office in the context of a profound banking, fiscal and jobs crisis and the decision to seek the external financial assistance that has been provided by the EU and the IMF. The crisis was caused by the reckless mismanagement of the economy by previous Governments and the destruction of significant parts of the Irish banking system. As part of its response to the crisis, the last Government reduced weekly and monthly welfare rates of payment in the last two budgets. The challenge for the new Government is unlike the challenge faced by any previous Government. Many people in society are facing hardship. The Government's priority is to get our economy moving, restore confidence, fix our banking system and support the protection and creation of jobs. The success of our economic plans will lay the foundation for the rest of our agenda for change.

Sustainable public finances are a prerequisite for economic stability and growth. To this end, the State must pursue a determined deficit reduction strategy. If we are to enhance international credibility, it is appropriate to stick to the aggregate adjustment set out in the national recovery plan. Accordingly, appropriate levels of social welfare rates will be considered in the context of budget 2012. The Government is committed to tackling Ireland's economic crisis in a way that is fair and balanced and recognises the need for social solidarity. In this regard, it is important to note that the programme for Government contains a commitment to maintain social welfare rates.

In the meantime, the Government's priority is to develop a strategy to allow job growth and sustainable enterprise. This is central to any recovery strategy. During its first 100 days, the Government will introduce and resource a series of measures designed to reduce unemployment and get Ireland working again. These will include measures to increase significantly the number of training, education and work experience opportunities and wide range of other initiatives. I look forward to developing them with my colleagues over the next few weeks so they can be implemented as quickly as possible.

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