Cecilia Keaveney (Fianna Fail)

I will begin where Senator Donohoe left off. We passed the pickets on our way in here this morning. However, rarely a day passes when we do not pass a picket on our way into the House as there are often pickets on important issues. On the specific issue today, people must realise that, while there is a €2 billion shortfall this year, there is a projected shortfall of many more billion for the coming years. While the issue today is tough to deal with and implement, we must consider the national interest. We are here to do that, even though we too face the pension levy. The issue is as difficult for us as it is for many on the picket lines. It is only through being here working through the issues and trying to support Government at this difficult time internationally that we will find a path to a better future for the country.

Will the Leader invite the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment or the Minister for Foreign Affairs, whichever is relevant, to the House to discuss the ongoing threat from the new American Administration, in terms of President Obama's move to try to protect American industries by ensuring that companies do not avail of better tax regimes in other countries? Putting it simply, Ireland has been the recipient of a staggering amount of American investment.

I would like the opportunity to discuss the issue with the relevant Minister so that we ensure we lobby and our voices are heard in America with regard to how important American investment is for us. We should also remind America how important we are for it. It is not a one-way street and it is important we send a strong message that we welcome what we have received and would welcome further investment. We also welcome the opportunity for Ireland to invest in America. We must bring home to the American Administration that it must remain a two-way street and we must lobby confidently and strongly to get that message across, particularly now that legislation is being drafted in America that might threaten our economic situation.