Fiona O'Malley (Progressive Democrats)

I welcome the Minister of State. I was not present to hear his speech as I was attending a meeting but I have read it and am very impressed. One of his comments, which he quotes from the International Labour Office, is that work is the source of dignity. This is vital and is the essence of the philosophy of my political party. There has been recognition of this over the past 25 years. Earlier contributions referred to the state of the country in the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s and what had to be done. There were concerted national efforts to get the country on its feet and make it the prosperous country it is today. The seeds were sown by people such as the late Mr. Lemass who recognised what had to be done. That is the great thing about politics, that when one is a politician for one's country and the country needs a big gesture, one is able to provide it and, many years in the future, the country can reap the rewards.

The concerted efforts made in the past include the social partnership, which the Minister of State mentioned. It has been hugely important and influential in terms of delivering a peaceful environment in which we could prosper. It provided a level of security through industrial peace. There were benefits all round for workers, employers and the country at large and it brought us to the position we have today. However, as Senator Quinn said, we cannot continue as we are.

Ireland is a model for other EU countries and countries that wish to join the Union. One such country is Ukraine which I visited 18 months ago. It is trying to replicate what Ireland did. It was the philosophy of my party, of a low taxation regime, which I am glad has been adopted by all political parties, that delivered this prosperity. We must recognise how important low taxation has been and keep an eye on it. As has been proven, it has generated more resources. The Minister of State spoke about ensuring there are no unreasonable burdens of regulation, which I presume include taxation and labour.