Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Of course we did not get everything right along the way - I would be the first to acknowledge that - nor have we achieved all of the things we hoped for when we took office. We must and will learn from our mistakes. We must also do better for the people in the future. I believe 2014 will be seen as a watershed year in Ireland's economic recovery, when our economic policy delivered the resources needed to build our communities and our society. This economic momentum will be maintained next year. After seven difficult years, the people can expect rising living standards, more disposable income and increasingly reformed public services. These are the fruits of economic recovery. We must ensure that all people in all parts of Ireland begin to feel that recovery in their daily lives.

Since entering government, we have focused on rescuing the economy. However, economic recovery is not enough and never was. It is not a goal in itself and does not represent the end of the Government's plans or ambitions. What is a recovery without humanity? What is economic success without dignity, respect or compassion? What is national wealth if it does not take account of community, heart, mind or spirit?

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