The Government is responsible for more than half the current inflation figure. Too much money was squandered before the election last year and economic indicators of the approaching downturn sadly were ignored. The Minister for Finance gave assurances that all was well and that no cut backs were planned. We know what has happened since. The Government did nothing to ensure value for money and, as a result, it has nothing to show for its reckless indulgence. No attempt was made to reform the public service when the funds were available and now we are facing the consequences. We lack the infrastructure to attract and sustain foreign investment and congestion brings our towns and cities to a standstill each day.