Paudie Coffey (Fine Gael)

I add my voice to those in all sectors of the economy, whether education, agriculture or business, who are concerned that we are suffering. I agree with the sentiments expressed by Senator Ross who is concerned about the appointments to "An Bord Snip". I ask the basic question, what is the Government elected to do and why is it not doing it. Why should it appoint people from the private sector or otherwise to examine ways to save money for this economy? I am sure there is a hoard of people within the Civil Service who could do this job. Why have they not been doing so during the past 11 years when the Government was in power? Is the Government incapable of doing this or is it a PR exercise?

At present, the Government seems clueless. As Senator Buttimer stated, it has no vision and no plan has been thought out to bring this country through the recession. Time is dripping away and our economy is suffering and in crisis. There is a daily convoy to Newry, Banbridge and Belfast, which is sucking and draining the lifeblood of our economy. I compliment the Labour Senators on tabling the motion we will debate this evening. They identify this problem and that a transfusion is needed back into our economy so we can reinflate the Christmas trade for small businesses and retailers. Retailers are examining their balance sheets and bank balances and are considering closing their doors in January. We need to act quickly.