Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael)

I welcome this timely assessment of and opportunity for reflection on the Government's record to date. It challenges the record of our first six months in government, from what we have done to what some Independents perceive we have not done. Anyone who makes an honest assessment of the economy recognises the need for growth, as it is the only means of establishing stability, creating jobs and, in turn, repaying our debts.

If we cannot achieve economic growth, we will fail miserably in our objectives, as set out. Anything else is only a distraction from the truth and is not worthy of much further comment. The Government's record, as outlined by the Minister and others, stands on its own and does not need to be reinforced by me.

I take issue with the condemnation of the present Government. The motion condemns the "present Government" for "opting to make good the gambling debts of unguaranteed bondholders". I do not understand why the motion should condemn the "present Government". The problem is not the fault of the present Government.

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