Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)

I do not disagree with Deputy Mathews' analysis. However, we are in a situation which we inherited from our predecessors, who entered into solemn and legally enforceable commitments in respect of Anglo Irish Bank, as it was then. Of course, Deputy Mathews is correct that we should do everything possible to reduce the debt burden on the taxpayers of Ireland and to enhance Ireland's capacity to repay its debts. We are working on that and making some progress.

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