Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Employment in the private sector is increasing. As stated by the Minister, Deputy Howlin, we now have growth as measured by GDP. Believe it or not - one would not believe it if one spent too much time reading the newspapers and listening to the media and I say that as a statement of fact rather than a criticism of the media - retail sales have increased for four months in a row, which has not happened for a long time. I sincerely hope this continues throughout Christmas and when the budget measures hit people's pockets in January. Property prices are showing signs of stability. We have been, to a degree, able to return to the bond markets and tourism increased by 10% in 2011 and at worst figures this year will be flat. It is hoped they will increase slightly. Also, our international reputation has been restored. A year ago people talked seriously about Ireland defaulting but that is no longer the topic of serious discussion. A year ago we were part of PIIGS along with Portugal, Italy, Greece and Spain. That is no longer the case. People see a clear distinction between the countries of southern Europe and Ireland. This is important because it has allowed the IDA to have its best year since the late 1980s in terms of the creation of jobs in this country.

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