Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I am focused on the decision the Irish people must make on 31 May. That decision is on whether to give their authorisation to ratify the fiscal stability treaty. A "Yes" vote will give confidence and continued investment, and will provide the insurance of the permanent availability of the European Stability Mechanism should it ever be required. It means that opportunity for our young people can be grown by decisive action at Government level here and as part of the European growth agenda. Deputy Boyd Barrett will be aware that President Van Rompuy has called a European growth summit for 23 May. I have dealt with some of the issues Deputy Martin raised which will be central to that agenda and which will have an impact on the European Union, the Single Market and the potential for industries here to create further jobs in the export market. That will be of interest to everybody.

Nobody objects to banks being taxed. However, the Deputy does not expect us to agree to something that would put our economy at a competitive disadvantage in respect of a financial transaction tax that would apply in Dublin but might not apply in London. He cannot expect us to do that. I assume he is not serious.

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