Fiona O'Malley (Progressive Democrats)

I do not believe public sector reform is happening fast enough, but I accept that Fianna Fáil is the largest party in Government because it goes about bringing many people on board with it as it goes forward. That has its benefits, but it also has its drawbacks because one is less inclined to fall out with a sector or an area. I was glad to hear Deputy Brian Cowen in his speech last week on becoming Taoiseach speak specifically about the need for public sector reforms, and emphasise they will be delivered. That is what is vital, since we have been held to ransom in so many instances as regards public services which appear to serve the primary interests of those who work in them. I do not believe that is right and I welcome the Taoiseach's emphasis on the need for a shift towards service to the public.

The economic outlook demands that we get changes in work practices. We no longer have an embarrassment of riches which underpins the luxury of being able to throw money at a problem. The Taoiseach also placed the focus on outcomes rather than inputs, and that is something to be welcomed as the new Government goes about its business. What is important in public services is outcomes rather than inputs. Of course inputs are important, but what are they delivering for the people, and what value for money are we getting? These are questions that need to be asked.

I also appreciate the mention of the partnership talks in the motion. It is important that we exercise a level of restraint. It is advisable that the Ministers should lead by example in this regard, but I do not expect the Taoiseach to make announcements as to what he is going to do. As a keen negotiator, I do not suppose he will enter talks by laying his cards on the table beforehand. He probably will negotiate quietly and gingerly, as is proper. We need to be careful, but we should not set in train a scene of misery because that is not where we are at in Ireland.