Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

-----and the EU and IMF did not tell the Government to breach its self-imposed pay cap for special advisers to the tune of €35,000. These were political choices made by Fine Gael and the Labour Party. Fianna Fáil has committed itself to a positive approach to opposition. We will not oppose measures for the sake of it, nor have we done so. If we agree with what the Government is doing, we will support it. If we disagree, we will oppose it and put forward what we believe is a credible and realistic alternative. I regret that this was not the approach of Fine Gael and the Labour Party in opposition. Their approach was utterly cynical. Measures that were obviously necessary for this country were opposed tooth and nail by Fine Gael in opposition. Much of the Opposition rhetoric, not to mention reckless election promises, are now coming home to roost. While in opposition and during the election, Fine Gael and Labour gave the Irish people the distinct impression that there would be an easier and softer way of tackling our problems. Now that those parties have shown their hand, the Irish people have been left bitterly disappointed.

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