John Gerard Hanafin (Fianna Fail)

Will the Leader request a debate, prior to the budget, on poverty in Ireland? We all take particular pride in the achievements of recent years. Economists have pronounced this to be the best country in the world in which to live. Our success was achieved with the help of friends in North America and the UK who, through the years, invested in this country and helped it develop. In later years, it was helped greatly through our own efforts. Many Irish people have gone as far west as Vancouver and to the east as far as Vladivostok to do business and we are proud of that. The Government has a very proud record in reducing poverty in this country. However, there is always a need to refocus efforts and I request the Leader to arrange a debate on this issue.