Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party) | Oireachtas source

What is the Taoiseach's perspective on the development of the general eurozone economy over the next period of one or two years? Is he aware of and has he engaged in discussions with his European colleagues about the fact that the eurozone is beginning to plunge into a new recession? Gross domestic product grew by 0% in the first quarter of this year and fell by 0.2% in quarter two and Germany is now predicted to face a recession. Is this not a very serious prospect for the countries of the eurozone and is it not proof that the austerity policies employed with a vengeance in the so-called peripheral countries but also applied generally are a complete failure? Is not Greece, unfortunately, proof positive of that?

In respect of economic questions and the impact of this eurozone economic situation on this country, could I advise the Taoiseach to be careful when he abuses and lectures people on the left on economic policies?

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