Déirdre de Búrca (Green Party)

Many people in Ireland are convinced by and wedded to the idea that low rates of taxation are essential to the success of the Irish economy. We need a very honest debate and I call on the Opposition to be honest in that regard. It is very easy, when in opposition, to condemn the Government for what is, in effect, a system that will provide a medical card for 95% of older people. At the same time, the Government is aware that Ireland is facing very difficult economic times. We heard an announcement this morning that the economy is likely to contract by between 3% and 4% next year. We find ourselves in very serious circumstances and the Government is trying to respond sensibly and fairly to them.