Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The Deputy has his own view about the whole European business.

Deputy Martin referred to capital works. If I were to say we plan to increase income tax by 5% or 6% to pay for these projects, this would increase both taxes and debt but this is not the way to go. There must be a balance between achieving the fiscal adjustment target of 8.6% of GDP on the one hand and re-focusing our attention on cutting out red tape and administrative blockages so that all the effort goes into releasing the opportunity for people to create work.

Across the country there are many examples of small businesses, entrepreneurs and young people who have new and creative ideas and businesses. Even if these businesses only employ a small number, confidence will be grow. The Government will provide microfinance credit opportunities and there will be a reduction in red tape and bureaucracy which applies. For instance, many LEADER groups have told me they have money in their funds but the associated red tape and bureaucracy makes it impossible to access it. The system will have to be simplified so that entrepreneurs or young people with ideas will be given the opportunity to give it a go.

See this speech in context