Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

Some 11,000 industrial jobs were lost in 2003. Industrial employment is at its lowest level since 1998 and almost 30,000 jobs have been lost since 2001. ISME warned that 35,000 small firm jobs are in danger. According to a survey carried out by that group, one quarter of companies stated they expected to employ fewer people this year. The same survey showed that most small business owners perceived the Government as regulators rather than facilitators. Yet the Government wants to be congratulated on its policies.

The Government shows its true colours in regard to poverty and the wealth gap. An Agreed Programme for Government in 2002 stated the Government would support the positive role of community employment schemes. Members know what has happened to them — they are gone.