Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)

The only way we can resolve that issue is if we get our public finances into a sustainable position. The way to do that and to get through these difficult years is to work with those international partners who are providing €85 billion so that we can get through this difficult period because we are not in the markets. The ECB is keeping the Irish bank afloat to the tune of €110 billion.

Deputy Wallace knows this and I put it to him that it is not just the responsibility of this Government to get us through this appalling mess, which we will get through, but it is the responsibility of every Member of this House to be realistic and to be honest with the public about the scale of the challenges we face and how we will get to that better place. I am sure the Deputy appreciates that the only way we can get to that better place is by taking a step-by-step approach to those negotiations.

The Government can point to some success. Does it need to do more? Of course, it does. Much is being done in bilaterally, quietly and distinctly but nonetheless winning the argument. The only way for this country to show to our international funders that there is a future for it is to ensure we make that progress. I look for the Deputy's support and that of the Government in attempting to do that because it is the only way we will get to a better place.

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