Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)

Back in January, I made a decision as an Independent TD to engage constructively in the formation of a new Government. My focus was simple. I wished to ensure the ambitions we have for Ireland could be realised in a practical, balanced and fair way. Throughout that process, I found the Tánaiste, Simon Harris, to be honest and open, willing to share ideas and genuinely committed to reaching consensus. Those early discussions were not about power or position but about policy, priorities and people. The Tánaiste showed integrity, determination and the ability to listen. That is what real leadership looks like. Since entering government, the Independent group of Ministers of State and I have worked closely with our partners to deliver on the programme for Government. It is built on respect, dialogue and a shared focus on outcomes.

From the outset, the Government set out a vision to deliver a fairer, more sustainable and more resilient Ireland. We are now beginning to see that vision take shape. The revised national development plan is a cornerstone of that progress. It is a plan with transformational intent and tangible impact. It will see €275.4 billion in public capital investment to 2035. This is not investment for headlines but investment that will secure Ireland's future, unlocking new housing supply, modernising our water and energy systems, upgrading our roads and regional connectivity, improving our health infrastructure, expanding renewable generation and ensuring public transport becomes the first choice of more people in every county. We are building capacity for a growing population, a more innovative economy and a greener way of living. This is the true measure of progress.

Just last week, the Government delivered the largest budget in the history of the State. This is not a one-off gesture but the first step in a multi-year plan to address real issues for those who need support. It delivers on our programme for Government commitments, tackling cost-of-living pressures, supporting families, investing in public services and building a fairer society.

Now more than ever, Ireland needs stability. We are operating in a time of global uncertainty and that demands consistent leadership. We need a stable Government that can take the long view, not one that is distracted by political noise or short-term thinking. There is still much to do over the remaining years of this Government but the ambition is clear, the pathway is set and the partnership is working. The goals laid out in the programme for Government, from housing and healthcare to rural development, environmental action and economic resilience, cannot be achieved overnight. They require steady hands and a shared commitment.

The Tánaiste's role, both as a national leader and as Minister for foreign affairs, has been vital in ensuring that Ireland's voice remains calm, principled and consistent on the world stage. At a time of extraordinary turbulence, from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, he has led with compassion and conviction. Ireland's reputation abroad is built on principle and humanity. The Tánaiste has embodied both. He has represented Ireland in a way that commands respect. Within the European Union and globally, the Tánaiste has been a force for stability, reason and leadership. He has not shied away from difficult positions or challenging conversations. He has stood up and spoken out when it was not easy or popular to do so but when it was necessary. This is what true leadership looks like. Leadership is not about chasing headlines or popularity polls. It is about standing firm in your convictions, being honest with the people and doing what is right even when it is difficult. The Tánaiste has shown those qualities time and again both at home and abroad. For that reason and for his steadfast commitment to the responsibilities of high office, I have no hesitation in supporting the motion of confidence in the Tánaiste. He has gone above and beyond the call of duty for the people of Ireland and our standing in the world.

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