Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Ireland is making its way through challenging times with modest projections for growth for 2013 and 2014, whereas many other countries are in negative positions with real difficulties ahead. That is the context in which the Minister for Social Protection was speaking. I do not accept that Government set out with anything other than a programme to rectify our problems and restore our country's credibility and integrity. I have said on many occasions that the international economy is moving very much in the right direction as far as Ireland is concerned. The difficulties other countries in Europe face represent a challenge for us also. Our productivity levels are extraordinary and export levels have been higher than ever. The better the shape other countries in Europe are in, the better it is for our producers and exporters.

As I said to Deputy Ó Snodaigh, the challenge is to deal with our national confidence and economy. That is why the structural changes have been taking place, principally within the Department of Social Protection through the establishment of the new system of Intreo offices. While they will not in themselves change the situation, their establishment is a recognition of the resources and talent which exist.

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