Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Tá a fhios ag an Teachta go bhfuil an-chuid difríocht idir an Rialtas seo agus an ceann a bhí ann roimhe seo. The legacy inherited by the Government must be dealt with. There is no point in running away from it because if we do nothing it gets worse. The decisions made by the Government in tackling the banking problem have brought about a positive response from the IMF, the EU, the European Commission, international banks and commentators, who have all recognised that at last a Government has taken decisions in respect of the banking sector. These decisions will bring about what are now known as the two pillar banks, which will be in a position to lend money and return to a position which one would expect banks to be in. Deputy Adams is well aware that we will never achieve the growth levels to which we aspire unless we sort out these problems. The Deputy will also be aware that parallel to dealing with the banking sector the Government, as part of its programme for Government, proposes to introduce in the next couple of weeks a jobs initiative scheme that will lead to a stimulation of the indigenous economy, thus creating the confidence necessary for people to spend, employers to take on new employees and assisting in the rebuilding of our economy. Far from the Government being lethargic or not moving on issues, it has and will continue to make decisions. The process outlined here is a necessary part of this. It is also in keeping with what other countries in Europe must do.

See this speech in context