Ivor Callely (Fianna Fail)

Will the Leader consult individuals and political groups in the House to explore what steps we can take to help economic recovery, not just with proposals, policy initiatives or suggestions of such nature, but with our actions? It is important when things are so difficult, and likely to remain difficult for a considerable period, certainly throughout 2009, into 2010 and perhaps into 2011, that no one underestimates the scale of the challenge facing us and the need for us to reposition ourselves. I understand that as a European Union member state, Ireland adheres to EU rules and regulations. However, I would ask the Leader to explore what pragmatic measures we can take to promote and encourage the support of Irish-based products and companies which operate, produce and employ and which pay into and generate revenue for the Irish system. I certainly would promote and support locally based industries. Every little step will help, whether we do it as individuals, collectively or as political groupings. I would ask the Leader to explore what we can do in this regard.