Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The important point is that we were able to borrow at manageable interest rates. As a result of Government action and because our reputation has been restored, we have been able to borrow at rates that are sustainable, having declined from 14% to 1%. The Deputy should also recognise that the unemployment rate has decreased from 15% to 6%, which makes a difference to his constituents who want public services maintained. The prudent management of the economy has allowed us to do that.

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