Larry Butler (Fianna Fail)

I want to raise a few matters that arose yesterday morning. I agree with most of what Senator O'Toole said. Yesterday morning I did not do a very good job of getting across the point that we must protect those who need protection in this economy when there is a downturn. It is the responsibility of unions, employers and all who have power at the table. That was the point I made yesterday morning. The responsibility is there. I will not dwell on that. Senator Coghlan, for whom I have great regard, raised some questions on the construction industry yesterday morning. This is an important part of our country's industry. The local authority budget for 2008 is very substantial. I got a few figures before I came up and I want to read them to the House.