Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The best antidote to social welfare is a job, because a job can transform a life. The Government is trying to sort out our public finances. I understand and commend people on their patience in dealing with this. We are putting whatever resources we can into the creation of jobs and opportunities.

Last Thursday, I attended a ceremony organised by the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Shatter - one of the many he has organised - at which 2,500 people over four days stood to attention to our national anthem while they received their citizenship. The joy and excitement on their faces was a sight to behold. If their conviction and belief in this country had been replicated by those in positions of power, influence and prestige a number of years ago, this country would not be in the mess it is in today.

See this speech in context