Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

In recent weeks I have asked again and again in this House where is the Government's plan for this country, our economy and public services. I return to this because there is a crisis of leadership in the country, a lack of confidence in the Government and a need for a coherent plan on all fronts, including crime, the economy and the health services. There is a lack of coherence in what is coming from the Government. We see the farmers protest with thousands of people on the streets. We see older people taking to the streets. Teachers, students and parents are holding huge meetings around the country. A hospital unit in Navan has closed due to a lack of funds. Many arbitrary cutbacks are made here and there. We were promised a further debate in this House on the economy.

Yesterday the Small Firms Association said it was extremely concerned at the threat to jobs. Those businesses see that before Christmas they will lose jobs. Many are unsure whether they can continue during the Christmas period and after it. They are seriously concerned about the lack of credit. It is very clear that the banks are not lending. What is the Government's plan for the banks? It is another example of the Government sowing confusing. Shareholders are not investing but are withdrawing because of this vacuum. In the interests of citizens, families and maintaining employment, we need clear Government action and capitalisation in the banks. I ask the Leader to arrange a debate on the economy as soon as possible. We were promised such a debate some weeks ago. It is high time we had it.

I ask the Leader to get back to the House on the medical card issue. We were told that a new means test form would be sent out to elderly people. Is any further information available in that regard? Many people are concerned that they may lose their medical cards. There is huge concern about the implications of the recent changes for individuals and families. I ask the Leader to get back to the House with information on when these letters will be sent out. What will be contained in them? What detail will be sought in the new means test forms that will be sent to thousands of people throughout the country?