Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

I apologise in advance for my inability to be present later for the Taoiseach's visit. I wish him well in his retirement. I recognise his service to the country and he can be proud of his legacy on economic, social and political developments and Northern Ireland issues.

I support the call by Senators Fitzgerald, Donohoe and O'Toole regarding the economic climate facing the country. When the social partners enter economic negotiations, Oireachtas Members are excluded from the process. It would be helpful if we debated the various economic issues facing the country and inflation, in particular, in the near future. A number of years ago my party was the subject of derision following its Rip Off Ireland campaign. However, it was effective, as it brought home to consumers the astronomical rate of increase in prices and the fact that many retailers were taking advantage of them.

A national campaign against inflation is needed. Wage increases are of little use to workers if they are wiped out by inflation. A major element of the Government's economic campaign over the next 12 months must be an attack on inflation and its causes to root it out. Inflation presents the same political challenge it did in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Perhaps this issue can be debated along with what is happening between the social partners and various Ministers. It is important the Houses of the Oireachtas have their say.

Will the Leader try to reschedule as soon as possible the debate on the World Trade Organisation talks postponed from last week? The May deadline is fast approaching and the future of Irish agriculture and 50,000 to 100,000 jobs are at risk. We need a strong political response from the Oireachtas and I ask to have the matter put back on the agenda of the Seanad for next week, if possible.