Dominic Hannigan (Labour)

Export orders are down for the third consecutive month. One can detect these concerns on the street. I have spoken to many builders in the past few weeks who are concerned about what is happening. FÁS predicts a downturn of approximately 55,000 jobs in the construction sector. This will hurt people and families. It will also hurt those currently sitting the leaving certificate examination who hoped to get involved in the construction industry. These people are worried about whether there will be jobs in this area for them.

I welcome SIPTU's statement today that we need to speed up investment in the national development plan. SIPTU has called for more investment in the Dublin outer orbital route, in school classrooms and in new social housing units. The Government, Senator White, can do more. We must protect the economy and invest more in the construction industry.