Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

I join other Senators in asking the Leader to arrange a debate on the economy as a matter of urgency. He has been living in denial for the past 12 months. Inflation has increased to 4.7%, VAT on retail sales is down by 8% and, as Senator Coghlan rightly noted, consumers are suffering. These consumers are the people of Ireland, the men and women who go about their daily business, but they have gained no refuge from this Government.

Twelve months ago, the Green Party sailed into Government promising the sun, moon and stars. The only thing they have done is turn the Celtic tiger into a Celtic snail. I hope Senators Boyle and de Búrca will take heart in that.