Barry Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

It is only right and proper that the people are reminded of some of the contributions made by the leading lights in the Government. The Tánaiste, Deputy Gilmore, said, "Child benefit is a red line issue." The phrase "Every little hurts" was used in a campaign by the Labour Party which lambasted its colleague, Fine Gael, for its proposed cuts in child benefit. The Taoiseach was quoted as saying in opposition, "I wish it to be clear in this regard that my party will achieve the savings that are required without touching child benefit." The Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Burton, said she would reverse welfare cuts when in office. Then we had the phrase, "Frankfurt's way or Labour's way." What we have is disarray.

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