John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

I support the motion put forward by my colleagues in the Labour Party. They are, no doubt, surprised by some of the content in the Government's amendment. The core issue in this debate and in arguments about tax evasion and the taxation system is equity. The facts presented in the motion clearly show that some people are, to borrow a phrase, treated more equally than others by the State. People who are wealthy can afford expertise in the taxation area to avoid and, in some cases, evade paying tax. Regardless of what Senator Mansergh said, it is clear from the figures where the emphasis of this Government lies, and it has been in office for nine years, with regard to tax evasion as opposed to social welfare fraud. It is clear that the poorer parts of society do not count.

This is remarkable when one considers the origins of the Fianna Fáil Party. I have always had an interest in history, particularly political history. Fianna Fáil has traditionally presented itself as the party of the less well off in society.