John Gerard Hanafin (Fianna Fail)

We find ourselves in a much better position than we were in last year when we were on the precipice. The Government did everything it could and succeeded in bringing us back from the precipice and ensuring the stability of the banking system. That has preserved employment and the economy. If we are in a position to reach a deal with the social partners and if it offers a workable solution, as the Taoiseach says, we should welcome it. One pays a price for social harmony. In the good times we can all benefit again. In the past 20 years we have had many good times and have faced up to our difficulties with broad shoulders and done so correctly.