Joe O'Reilly (Fine Gael)

Further to what Senator Ó Murchú said and as we approach the budget, one of the great challenges facing us is the degree to which we create new jobs and hold existing ones. I am fully in favour of a debate on the issues raised by Senator Ó Murchú. I also ask the Leader for a specific debate on the creation of new jobs and keeping existing ones. In that context, in recent days we have been advised that one in three restaurants is at risk of closure, which means the displacement of jobs, with waitresses, chefs, commis-chefs and others finding themselves without work. The cost of food here is 24% higher than the European average, which raises questions.

The 250,000 people who regularly shop in Northern Ireland are displacing retail jobs in Border areas and elsewhere in the Republic. In addition, the pending carbon tax and the 4% bio-fuel obligation will lead to an increase in the price of diesel and petrol and the closure of filling stations along the Border in counties Cavan and Monaghan and further afield. While finding solutions will not be easy, the House has a duty to spend a day discussing the matter and investigating options, including the extent to which a reduction in the rate of VAT or excise duties on alcoholic drink might stop cross-Border shopping. We need the qualified professionals to give us the figures to try to find solutions. The House has a duty to respond to the crisis. There are 40 restaurants in County Cavan, 12 of which are at risk of closure.