Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

As we speak people are dying as a result of drug overdoses and suicide, businesses are laying off employees and banks are refusing credit yet the majority of people here are being self-serving in looking after their own preservation. That is indicative of the way the political system is broken and in need of radical reform. People see us as elitist, out of touch with reality and aloof and it is time we changed that perception. I say that as someone who is proud to be a Member of Seanad Éireann, has great pride in our Constitution and does not necessarily agree with Deputy Enda Kenny's remarks but it took leadership and courage to make them. He was brave because there are interests in this Chamber who have had their heads in the sand for far too long, aided and abetted by the Ministers of this Government who have abdicated responsibility. These people are answerable to no one and the country is in a mess. It is not just in a mess, it is on the brink of disaster.

Senator Boyle and his comrades came before the House and pontificated on how good was the new programme for Government.