Paschal Donohoe (Fine Gael)

I second the amendment to the Order of Business proposed by Senator Fitzgerald and concur with Senator O'Toole in regard to the ongoing discussions between the social partners. A perception is being created in some quarters that failure is a creeping inevitability in these discussions. This House should send a clear message that failure is not an option. Our country stands on the brink and if agreement cannot be reached, decisions must be made that ensure a return to prosperity.

I note that voluntary or involuntary unemployment is being considered as an option for the public service, as opposed to measures that would reduce or freeze wages. This would be an appalling route, however. This House has on many occasions pointed to the importance of social solidarity and the need to pull together. How will we do that by keeping a reduced number in work on current or higher wages instead of a larger number on lower wages? That is the challenge we face.

I ask the Leader to arrange a debate on yesterday's Exchequer returns. The Taoiseach stated that one in ten people are now on the higher rate of income tax, as opposed to one in five previously, and that half of all earners do not pay income tax. How can that be the case given that the income levies apply to earnings below the average industrial wage? These points need to be clarified if we are to hold a debate based on facts.