Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

I compliment RTE on its effort to bring balance to the debate on the economy. For a long time there has been a view abroad that we have been having a one-sided debate. This is demoralising people at a time when we need to uplift and assist them in getting through the current recession. This morning, RTE interviewed a leading economist with a totally different story than we have been hearing. He was interviewed by RTE - I will not mention his name - on the basis that the media has in the past been accused of being somewhat less than straightforward in terms of providing a balanced report on the economy.

This economist, who is a leading economist in this country, predicted good news on the horizon for Ireland. He said that in the near future the recession will bottom out and that early next year there will be a return to growth in the economy. On exports, an issue on which a report has been issued today, he made the point that we are doing much better in the export area than most other countries.

I mention this because I believe there is a new realisation entering the debate. RTE is providing leadership, which is significant at this particular time. What I heard this morning should be put in print because it must be important reading for all people wishing to make a positive contribution to lifting us from where we are. At the end of the day, what is important is people, jobs and, above all else, ensuring we assist Ireland internationally by putting out a balanced picture to prospective investors and media gurus. I compliment RTE on that interview. It is an important start on the road back.